essential 1 of 2

adjective

i-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce essential (audio)
Definition of essentialnext
1
as in necessary
impossible to do without a well-stocked public library is essential for the well-being of a community

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in basic
of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject anyone with an essential knowledge of human biology can follow the documentary

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in integral
being a part of the innermost nature of a person or thing an unquenchable belief in the essential goodness of most people

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

essential

2 of 2

noun

1
as in must
something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable the essentials for success include a willingness to work and the right attitude

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in principles
essentials plural general or basic truths on which other truths or theories can be based this will be just an introduction to the essentials of computer programming

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word essential different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of essential are cardinal, fundamental, and vital. While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character.

conflict is essential in drama

When could cardinal be used to replace essential?

While in some cases nearly identical to essential, cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends.

a cardinal rule in buying a home

When is fundamental a more appropriate choice than essential?

While the synonyms fundamental and essential are close in meaning, fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse.

fundamental principles of algebra

When would vital be a good substitute for essential?

The words vital and essential are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation.

cut off from vital supplies

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of essential
Adjective
The telescope was a brand new technology, just two years old, when Galileo took it from a seafaring and distance tool and turned it into an essential item for astronomy. — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 30 July 2026 The ballot initiative’s language theoretically limits how tax dollars should be used by county and municipal governments, with the idea that such provisions ensure continued funding for essential services. — Abigail Hall, The Conversation, 30 July 2026
Noun
For some Long Island families, the cost of supplies, clothes and other back-to-school essentials is becoming a growing challenge. — John Dias, CBS News, 31 July 2026 This summer has been all about experimentation—bold color combinations and playful accessories, all grounded by your essentials. — Minty Mellon, Vogue, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for essential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for essential
  1. necessary
  2. basic
  3. integral
  4. must
  5. elements
  6. required
  7. rudimentary
  8. inherent
Adjective
  • If monoculture is partially abandoned in certain areas, financial compensation will be necessary.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 31 July 2026
  • And Cristobal will do what is necessary to make sure that standard is established before the season begins.
    — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
Definition of necessary
Adjective
  • This basic primer avoids specific military tactics, instead offering general advice for non-military personnel.
    — Zita Ballinger Fletcher, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026
  • The process starts by inputting your name, address, phone number, email address and a basic description of your project online.
    — Jason Rueger, USA Today, 29 July 2026
Definition of basic
Adjective
  • Business continuity and reputation should be integral to crisis response, as their impacts extend beyond mere technology.
    — Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
  • Caggiano was an integral part of the team that fought tirelessy to get this deal done, just a few years after negotiating the NWSL’s first-ever CBA.
    — Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 30 July 2026
Definition of integral
Noun
  • Visiting this elegant waterfront restaurant, participating in Spice for the first time, is a must.
    — Connie Ogle July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
  • This seven-floor fashion amusement park has quickly established itself as a must-visit staple.
    — New York Times, New York Times, 31 July 2026
Definition of must
Noun
  • The introduction of liquid glass has led to larger, more graphical elements that have taken over in terms of clarity and ease of use.
    — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • While Tehran's civilian government is seeking economic relief and sanctions easing, elements within the security establishment may view continued pressure in the strait as an important source of leverage.
    — Emma Graham, CNBC, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of elements
Adjective
  • The product had been cooked more than four hours prior to the inspection and was outside the required cooling parameters.
    — Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado July 31, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026
  • The required ingredients included plums, farro, a can of chickpeas, summer squash and a baguette.
    — Olivia Wakim, AJC.com, 30 July 2026
Definition of required
Adjective
  • Fauci repeated his statement, answering none of the rudimentary questions.
    — Joey Garrison, USA Today, 29 July 2026
  • Something as rudimentary as remembering the play calls as training camp got underway, was also top of mind.
    — Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 28 July 2026
Definition of rudimentary
Adjective
  • If speed and trust are still presented as a trade-off in 2026, that is a sign of an immature solution, not an inherent limitation.
    — Susan Laine, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
  • There’s an edge and inherent darkness in both your sound and visuals.
    — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 30 July 2026
Definition of inherent

Browse Nearby Words

essences
essential
essentialities
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Cite this Entry

“Essential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/essential. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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