Esencën

Esencën is the definite singular form of the Albanian noun esencë, meaning essence. The term has two main uses. In philosophy and general discourse, esencë denotes the intrinsic nature or defining properties that make something what it is, as opposed to contingent properties. In metaphysical debates, essence is contrasted with existence or accident, and with discussions of essential properties and necessity.

In culinary, perfumery, and everyday language, esencë also refers to a concentrated extract or flavoring, such as vanilla essence, almond essence, or essential oils used for fragrance. In Albanian usage, the non-definite form esencë covers the general concept, while esencën marks a definite reference.

Etymology: The Albanian esencë derives from the broader European term essence, via Latin essentia and French essence, ultimately from Greek ousia, meaning “being” or “that which is.”

Notes: The word can appear in academic writing on philosophy or in recipes and product labels, where context clarifies whether the reference is to a conceptual essence or to a concentrated extract.

See also: Essence (philosophy); Essentialism.