definition of
essence

[1] #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] #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] #3 essence n. [effect, burden, core, gist] the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary work. wn

[4] #4 essence n. [perfume] a toiletry that emits and diffuses a fragrant odor. wn