presence Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the state of being present; current existence
    • he tested for the presence of radon
  2. noun the immediate proximity of someone or something
    front.
    • she blushed in his presence
    • he sensed the presence of danger
    • he was well behaved in front of company
  3. noun an invisible spiritual being felt to be nearby
  4. noun the impression that something is present
    • he felt the presence of an evil force
  5. noun dignified manner or conduct
    bearing; mien; comportment.
  6. noun the act of being present

WordNet

Pres"ence noun
Etymology
F. présence, L. praesentia. See Present.
Definitions
  1. The state of being present, or of being within sight or call, or at hand; -- opposed to absence.
  2. The place in which one is present; the part of space within one's ken, call, influence, etc.; neighborhood without the intervention of anything that forbids intercourse.
    Wrath shell be no more Thenceforth, but in thy presence joy entire. Milton.
  3. Specifically, neighborhood to the person of one of superior of exalted rank; also, presence chamber.
    In such a presence here to plead my thoughts. Shak.
    An't please your grace, the two great cardinals. Wait in the presence. Shak.
  4. The whole of the personal qualities of an individual; person; personality; especially, the person of a superior, as a sovereign.
    The Sovran Presence thus replied. Milton.
  5. An assembly, especially of person of rank or nobility; noble company.
    Odmar, of all this presence does contain, Give her your wreath whom you esteem most fair. Dryden.
  6. Port, mien; air; personal appearence. "Rather dignity of presence than beauty of aspect." Bacon.
    A graceful presence bespeaks acceptance. Collier.

Webster 1913