figurative. The most essential part or feature of some non-material thing; the purest or most perfect form or manifestation of some quality…

‘Species of existent being’ (Johnson); an element. Chiefly in phrase, fifth essence, transl. of Latin quinta essentia: see quintessence, n.

= quintessence, n.

figurative. The quintessence or soul of a thing; its kernel or secret principle.

concrete. The product of distilling. figurative. The extract, abstract; the refined or concentrated essence.

figurative. A refined or concentrated product; the essence or distillation of something.

figurative. With of: quintessence, concentrated spirit.

The most fundamental aspect or essential part of a thing; a quintessential element.