Es·sence (n)

1. the quality or nature of something that identifies it or makes it what it is

2. the most basic element or feature of something

3. the perfect or idealized form of something, especially when embodied in a person

4. the ideal nature of something, independent of and prior to its existence

5. a spiritual entity

6. an extract or derivative of a plant that contains its characteristic or special chemical constituents

7. a concentrated substance extracted from a plant that retains the plant’s essential properties, such as flavor and fragrance

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