essence

noun

1. the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience

Similar word(s): center, centre, core, gist, heart, inwardness, kernel, marrow, meat, nub, pith, substance, sum

Definition categories: thought, content

2. any substance possessing to a high degree the predominant properties of a plant or drug or other natural product from which it is extracted

Definition categories: substance

3. the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary work

Similar word(s): burden, core, effect, gist

Definition categories: communication, import, meaning, significance, signification

4. a toiletry that emits and diffuses a fragrant odor

Similar word(s): perfume

Definition categories: man–made, toiletry