Existent
/ɪɡˈzɪstənt/
Definitions
Having existence; being real; occurring or being found.
/ɪɡˈzɪstənt/
Currently existing or being present
The existent evidence suggests a correlation between these two factors.
💡 Simply: Something that is real and actually *is* there, like the real-life unicorns that aren't there.
👶 For kids: Real and alive! Like a dog that really lives.
More Examples
Are there any existent copies of the original manuscript?
The existent buildings date back to the 18th century.
How It's Used
"The problem of evil challenges the belief in an existent, benevolent God."
"The search for existent extraterrestrial life continues."
From Latin *exsistens*, present participle of *exsistere* ('to appear, come forth, exist'), from *ex-* ('out') and *sistere* ('to stand, set').
The word has been used in philosophical and scientific contexts since the 17th century, often dealing with questions of reality and being.
Memory tip
Think of something that's *in existence* – it *is* existent!