ESSENTIAL meaning: 1 : extremely important and necessary often + to or for often followed by to + verb often + that; 2 : very basic fundamental Explore the complete meaning of "essential" with expert definitions, real-world usage examples, synonyms, antonyms, and visual aids. Perfect for students, writers, and language learners. Essential, inherent, intrinsic refer to that which is in the natural composition of a thing. Essential suggests that which is in the very essence or constitution of a thing: Oxygen and hydrogen are essential in water. Essential means very basic or necessary. A good frying pan is one of a short list of kitchen essentials every cook must have. To prevent fires, it's essential to turn off appliances before leaving the house.
