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

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.
Monetization for social accounts was virtually non-existent at the time, so some of Vine’s biggest creatives were easily lured away when large tech companies began to promote the idea of getting paid for your work on sites like Instagram and YouTube. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 24 Dec. 2025 The source claims Nick's days are rigidly controlled, his movements limited and his contact with the outside world effectively non-existent. Danielle Bacher, PEOPLE, 20 Dec. 2025 That said, the fear of pilling or an oily-looking canvas is non-existent. Tatayana Yomary, Essence, 19 Dec. 2025 Lean into transfers Part of the allure of Florida’s open position during this coaching carousel was the already existent talent on the Gators’ roster. Noah White, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Existent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/existent. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

existent

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

More from Merriam-Webster on existent

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