1
as in necessary
impossible to do without
a well-stocked public library is essential for the well-being of a community
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
1
as in must
something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable
the essentials for success include a willingness to work and the right attitude
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of essential
Tracy Yochum, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026
To be sure, many investors view meaningful margin upside as an essential part of the turnaround.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2026
Kathy Kristof, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026
Looking more broadly, the reason for that debt across Western populations is to pay for everyday essentials.
—Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for essential
Adjective
As more people relocate to Florida, selecting a moving company that can expertly navigate this major life transition is essential — ensuring a seamless start in your new state from day one.
—Tracy Yochum, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026
To be sure, many investors view meaningful margin upside as an essential part of the turnaround.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
Gopuff delivers convenience items like snacks, drinks, household essentials, over-the-counter medicine, and alcohol.
—Kathy Kristof, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026
Looking more broadly, the reason for that debt across Western populations is to pay for everyday essentials.
—Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for essential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for essential
Adjective
-
Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you're not caught outside.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
1 May 2026
-
These measures are primary requirements to obtain certification from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a federal agency of the Department of Labor that ensures the education and training necessary to guarantee safety in workplaces.—
Sarah Moreno
May 1,
Miami Herald,
1 May 2026
Adjective
-
Then again, the novel, a worldly form and rather proud of it, has good reason not to question the basic terms of our existence.—
James Wood,
New Yorker,
4 May 2026
-
Instead of bigger SUVs or higher trims — versions of a model with more features and elevated prices — many shoppers are sticking with simpler options like compact sedans, entry-level pickups or the most basic version on the dealer's lot.—
Mike Winters,
CNBC,
3 May 2026
Adjective
-
Even with work, school, and extracurricular demands, finding a way to share stories of the day with our families has once again become an integral part of our day-to-day, sometimes with an instantly transformative effect.—
Patricia Shannon,
Southern Living,
1 May 2026
-
Having found his home as a No 6 after an awkward introduction at No 10 in the Premier League since joining two years ago after his Lazio contract expired, Kamada has become an integral player.—
Matt Woosnam,
New York Times,
1 May 2026
Noun
-
Cutting fresh corn from the cob is a must for these cheery summer pizzas.—
Hannah Agran,
Midwest Living,
28 Apr. 2026
-
Improving Penn for people is a must, but improving it for trains must happen as well.—
New York Daily News Editorial Board,
New York Daily News,
27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Jackeline Madrid suffered a fracture and required stitches.—
Amelia Mugavero,
CBS News,
28 Apr. 2026
-
Bark’s new Companion Concierge will help arrange international paperwork and required vaccinations.—
Beth Landman,
HollywoodReporter,
28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Rotifers, though microscopic, possess specialized systems such as digestive tracts and rudimentary nervous structures, making their long-term survival in a frozen state particularly notable.—
Brittany Miller,
FOXNews.com,
25 Apr. 2026
-
His pieces include solid wood chairs with a deliberately rudimentary, almost minimal design, integrating ornamental elements such as marquetry panels or tin bas-reliefs into their backs, legs or seats.—
Sandra Salibian,
Footwear News,
20 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
The aircraft also benefits from being easier to upgrade over time, thanks to its inherent modular design.—
Christopher McFadden,
Interesting Engineering,
3 May 2026
-
Critics may suggest that licenses for tradeworkers like electricians are still necessary given the dangers inherent to construction.—
Maxwell Harden,
Sun Sentinel,
3 May 2026
Noun
-
The spokesperson noted that the pilot had completed all mandatory medical examinations in compliance with regulatory requirements and held a Class I medical certification.—
Colson Thayer,
PEOPLE,
30 Apr. 2026
-
The information provided is crucial in identifying whether the state meets federal requirements for various forms of disaster assistance.—
Mateo Rosiles,
USA Today,
30 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Essential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/essential. Accessed 5 May. 2026.
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