What does existence mean?
Existence is a noun describing the fact or state of being real, alive, or present in the world. In its most fundamental sense, it refers to objective reality — whether something actually is rather than is not, as when scientists discuss the existence of distant galaxies or philosophers ponder why anything exists at all. The word also has a second, more everyday sense: a particular mode or manner of living, often one that is hard or humble, as in "a hand-to-mouth existence." Derived from Latin roots meaning "to stand out," existence entered English in the late Middle Ages and became central to Western philosophy, especially through existentialism, which explores what it means to live authentically. Its derivatives include "existent," "existential," and "coexistence." Because it spans both abstract metaphysics and concrete descriptions of daily survival, existence is a versatile word that appears across philosophy, science, literature, and ordinary conversation about how people live.
The fact or state of having objective reality or being.
"The telescope confirmed the existence of a planet orbiting the distant star."
Often used in phrases like "come into existence" or "deny the existence of."
A mode or manner of living, especially one marked by hardship or simplicity.
"They lived a quiet, isolated existence in the mountains."
Frequently modified by adjectives such as "hand-to-mouth," "meager," or "solitary."
Rarely used in the plural; typically only when contrasting different modes of living rather than multiple instances of being itself.
"Their two existences could hardly have been more different — one of luxury, the other of constant struggle."
The word "existence" comes from Latin roots meaning "to stand out" — to exist is literally to stand forth and be visible in the world.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of existence
Existence derives from the Latin verb "existere" (or "exsistere"), meaning "to stand out," "to emerge," or "to come into being," formed from "ex-" (out) plus "sistere" (to stand). The word entered English via Old French in the late medieval period, with its modern noun form established by the early 17th century. It shares its root with related English words including "exist," "existent," "existential," and "subsistence."
Related word forms
How existence is actually used
Neutral to formal register; common in philosophical, scientific, and literary contexts. When referring to a difficult way of living (e.g., "a meager existence"), it often carries a slightly somber connotation.
Easily confused with existence
"Existance" is simply a misspelling; the correct spelling is always "existence" with an -ence ending.