1. the basic, most important, or most fundamental quality or feature of something
2. a concentrated liquid containing the flavor, scent, or other properties extracted from a plant or other substance
3. the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something that determines its character
Usage: philosophical

Examples

• The essence of democracy is the right to vote.
• She captured the essence of the character in her performance.
• Add a few drops of vanilla essence to the cake batter.
• The essence of peppermint filled the room.
• Time is of the essence in this emergency situation.
• The philosopher studied the essence of human nature.
• The essence of his argument was quite simple.