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

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near nominal essence

Cite this Entry

“Nominal essence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nominal%20essence. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!