n.

1. 本質，實質；要素；本體[the S][（+of）]
   The essence of his long speech was that we must all work harder.

   他那長篇大論的核心是我們大家必須更努力地工作。

   The essence of language is communication.

   語言的本質是溝通。

2. 精髓，精華[U]
3. 香精；香料，精油[U][C]
   essence of roses

   玫瑰香料

n.

1. the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, which determines its character:
   conflict is the essence of drama.
   ▸Philosophy  a property or group of properties of something without which it would not exist or be what it is.
2. an extract or concentrate obtained from a plant or other substance and used for flavouring or scent.