existent

adjective

ex·​is·​tent ig-ˈzi-stənt How to pronounce existent (audio)
Synonyms of existentnext
1
: having being : existing
2
: existing now : present
existent methods of flood control
existent noun

Synonyms of existent

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Examples of existent in a Sentence

I think we should improve existent parks rather than create new ones. to some people, angels are as existent as aardvarks or astronomers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The instructions directed employees to install a non-existent Python package from PyPI. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2026 With private loans practically non-existent, studying English at this college would become a luxury reserved for those who can pay out of pocket. — Matthew Scogin, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 Brazil and Argentina have a virtually non-existent diplomatic relationship. — James Powel, USA Today, 26 July 2026 With the yellow jersey contest non-existent in week three, the green jersey race has made for compelling viewing. — Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for existent

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Late Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Late Latin existent-, existens/exsistent-, exsistens, from present participle of Latin existere, exsistere "to come into view, appear, show oneself, come into being" (Late Latin, "to have real being, be, be present") — more at exist

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of existent was in 1535

Phrases Containing existent

Rhymes for existent

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Browse Nearby Words

existency
existent
existential
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Cite this Entry

“Existent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/existent. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

existent

adjective
ex·​ist·​ent
ig-ˈzis-tənt
1
: having being
2
: existing now : extant

More from Merriam-Webster on existent

Nglish: Translation of existent for Spanish Speakers

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