How to Pronounce "esse"
word
ˈɛs
ES
ˈɛs
ES
Definition
'Esse' is a rare, formal word in philosophy meaning 'existence' or the essential nature of something. It refers to what makes something itself, often in contrast to its qualities ('essence' or 'being').
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɛs
British English
ˈɛs
Simplified Pronunciation
US
ES
UK
ES
Listen in Context
In philosophy, 'esse' means the act of existing.
Some medieval thinkers debated the nature of 'esse'.
The term 'esse' is not commonly used in everyday language.
A philosopher might say that a thing's 'esse' is what gives it being, regardless of its qualities.