adjective Uncommon

existential

ehg-zih-STEHNSHL

Existential (adjective) means relating to existence, especially the fact or nature of being alive. Example: “The climate crisis poses an existential threat to low-lying island nations.”

adjective

Relating to existence, especially the fact or nature of being alive.

"The climate crisis poses an existential threat to low-lying island nations."

Relating to existentialism, the philosophy focused on individual freedom, choice, and meaning.

"He went through an existential crisis after turning forty, questioning the point of it all."

How to use existential

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo do with the basic fact of existing, or with deep questions about the meaning and purpose of life.

Common pairings

existential threat existential crisis existential question existential dread

Word forms

more existential comparative, most existential superlative

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The climate crisis poses an _____ threat to low-lying island nations.

Etymology

From Late Latin existentialis, built from existentia ("existence") plus the adjective ending "-al."

Origin: Late Latin

Rhymes for existential

dial trial aerial serial filial denial medial racial social burial facial menial

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Frequently asked questions

What does “existential” mean?

The word “existential” means relating to existence, especially the fact or nature of being alive. In plain terms, to do with the basic fact of existing, or with deep questions about the meaning and purpose of life.

How do you pronounce “existential”?

“Existential” is pronounced ehg-zih-STEHNSHL (/ˌɛɡzɪˈstɛn(t)ʃəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “existential” in a sentence?

Here is “existential” used in a sentence: “The climate crisis poses an existential threat to low-lying island nations.”

What part of speech is “existential”?

“Existential” is an adjective.

Where does the word “existential” come from?

The word “existential” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin existentialis, built from existentia ("existence") plus the adjective ending "-al.".

Is “existential” a common word?

“Existential” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “existential” have?

“Existential” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to existence, especially the fact or nature of being alive.