nominal essence

noun

Lockeanism
: an abstract complex idea that has been given a distinct general name
the nominal essences of things, expressed by their common name, rest upon the experienced resemblances that cause objects to fall into different groups and to receive different appellationsB. A. G. Fuller
contrasted with real essence

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Cite this Entry

“Nominal essence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nominal%20essence. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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