a. [ L. existens, -entis, p. pr. of existere. See Exist. ] Having being or existence; existing; being; occurring now; taking place. [ 1913 Webster ]
The eyes and mind are fastened on objects which have no real being, as if they were truly existent. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
a.
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Existentially as well as essentially intelligent. Colerige. [1913 Webster]
n. (Philosophy) a philosophical theory or attitude having various interpretations, generally emphasising the existence of the individual as a unique agent with free will and responsibility for his or her own acts, though living in a universe devoid of any certain knowledge of right and wrong; from one's plight as a free agent with uncertain guidelines may arise feelings of anguish. Existentialism is concerned more with concrete existence rather than abstract theories of essences; is contrasted with