What does presence mean?
Presence means the fact of being present, existing, or appearing somewhere. In its most common sense, it describes the attendance or existence of a person, group, or thing: the presence of smoke, the presence of a familiar accent, or the presence of an important visitor. The word can also convey the impression made by someone or something, as in a person with a commanding presence. Because it can suggest both physical occurrence and a strong effect on a scene, presence has a slightly formal but widely used tone. It appears in familiar expressions such as “in the presence of” and “presence of mind,” where it refers to the ability to remain calm and attentive in difficult circumstances.
nounThe fact of being present, existing, or appearing in a particular place. It can also refer to the quality or effect of someone's or something's manner, appearance, or influence.
- The fact of being present, existing, or appearing in a particular place.
- The attendance or existence of a person, group, or thing in a place or situation.
- The quality or effect of someone's or something's manner, appearance, bearing, or influence.
"The presence of fresh flowers made the room feel welcoming."
"The detective's presence at the scene had a calming effect on the witnesses."
"Her commanding presence drew attention whenever she entered the room."
Usually used in the singular as an abstract noun; the plural is occasional and typically refers to separate instances of being present or to people or things that are present.
"The two presences at the gate were recorded by the security camera."
From the Latin for “being at hand,” presence became a word for both simple existence and the striking impression made by a person or thing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does presence come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin praesentia, meaning “being present” or “attendance.” Latin praesentia was formed from praesens, the present participle of praesesse, meaning “to be present” or “to be at hand.” The same Latin root also underlies present, presentable, and related words.
How presence is actually used
The phrase “in the presence of” is formal and commonly means “while someone or something is there.” As an uncountable noun, “presence” usually refers to the quality of being present or to an individual's or group's presence in a place or situation.
Easily confused with presence
A presence is the fact of being or appearing somewhere, whereas a present is a gift or, in another use, an adjective meaning current.