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.
And, crucially, throughout the Communist Party-run country, public opposition to the mass construction of data centers – the kind that is making headlines in the US – is non-existent. — Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2026 For example, in 2025, only four players had 30 or more receptions, and the Broncos’ downfield passing game was virtually non-existent. — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 11 Oct. 2026 Against the typically mediocre USC defense, their running attack was virtually non-existent with just 68 yards on 31 attempts. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026 Blissfully unaware of the industry’s collective eye baggage and only concerned about her own (non-existent) dark circles is Saoirse Ronan, who Eurostar-ed her way to Paris just for the Louis Vuitton show. — Alice Newbold, Vogue, 8 Oct. 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

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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 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

existent

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