#1 essence n. [kernel, substance, core, center, centre, gist, heart, heart and soul, inwardness, marrow, meat, nub, pith, sum, nitty-gritty] the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; "the gist of the prosecutor's argument"; "the heart and soul of the Republican Party"; "the nub of the story". wn
#2 essence n. any substance possessing to a high degree the predominant properties of a plant or drug or other natural product from which it is extracted. wn
#3 essence n. [effect, burden, core, gist] the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary work. wn
#4 essence n. [perfume] a toiletry that emits and diffuses a fragrant odor. wn
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