Nonexistent
/ˌnɒnɪɡˈzɪstənt/
Definitions
Not existing or being real.
/ˌnɒnɪɡˈzɪstənt/
Not existing; not real.
The evidence for the crime was nonexistent, and the case was dismissed.
💡 Simply: It's like something you can't find because it's not even there! Imagine trying to find a unicorn or a map of a place that doesn't exist.
👶 For kids: It's something that isn't real, like a monster under your bed that isn't actually there.
More Examples
She discovered that the funds for the project were nonexistent.
His claim to fame was based on a nonexistent achievement.
How It's Used
"The philosopher debated the existence of a nonexistent entity."
"A nonexistent debt was claimed by the fraudulent company."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From non- + existent, which itself derives from Latin existere, meaning "to exist."
Used since the early 19th century, with a rapid increase in frequency during the late 20th and early 21st century.
Memory tip
Think 'non' (not) + 'existent' (existing). If it's nonexistent, it doesn't exist!
Word Origin
"to exist"