ENGLISH
REFERENCE

presence

n.
US //ˈpɹɛzəns// UK //pɹˈɛzəns// pres·ence
  1. 1 being in a place (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the fact of being in a particular place at a particular time.

    the state or condition of being physically or notionally present in a location.

    Example

    Your presence is required at the meeting tomorrow morning.

    Example

    The document was signed in the presence of two independent witnesses to ensure its legal validity.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'in the presence of'.
  2. 2 impressive personality (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a quality that makes people notice and admire you when you enter a room.

    a quality of poise, charisma, or effectiveness that commands attention from others.

    Example

    The lead actor had a powerful stage presence that captivated the audience.

    Example

    Despite her quiet voice, she possessed a commanding presence that immediately silenced the room whenever she rose to speak.

    Usage

    Commonly modified by adjectives like 'commanding', 'powerful', or 'stage'.
Show 3 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 a spirit or feeling (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a feeling that a person or a spirit is in the room with you, even if you cannot see them.

    a supernatural or invisible entity perceived as being present in a specific area.

    Example

    She felt a strange presence in the old house, as if someone were watching her.

    Example

    The medium claimed to sense a peaceful presence in the garden, suggesting the site held a spiritual significance for the former owners.
  2. 4 business activity (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    the fact that a company or group is active and known in a certain area or market.

    the visible or influential activity of a commercial or military entity within a specific region or market.

    Example

    The tech company is trying to grow its presence in the European market.

    Example

    The sudden increase in the military presence along the border raised concerns among international observers regarding the stability of the ceasefire.

    Usage

    Often used with 'online', 'market', or 'military'.
  3. 5 focus and awareness (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Philosophy

    the state of being completely focused on what is happening right now.

    the state of being mentally focused on the current moment and immediate surroundings.

    Example

    Meditation helps you develop a sense of presence and calm in your daily life.

    Example

    The therapist encouraged her to maintain a sense of presence during stressful conversations rather than retreating into defensive thoughts.

    Usage

    Frequently appears in psychological or philosophical contexts regarding mindfulness.
Origin

Through Old French presence, from Latin praesentia (“a being present”), from praesentem. Displaced native Old English andweardnes.

© 2026 English Reference