n.

1. 本质，实质；要素；本体[the S][（+of）]
   The essence of his long speech was that we must all work harder.

   他那长篇大论的核心是我们大家必须更努力地工作。

   The essence of language is communication.

   语言的本质是沟通。

2. 精髓，精华[U]
3. 香精；香料，精油[U][C]
   essence of roses

   玫瑰香料

n.

1. the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, which determines its character:
   conflict is the essence of drama.
   ▸Philosophy  a property or group of properties of something without which it would not exist or be what it is.
2. an extract or concentrate obtained from a plant or other substance and used for flavouring or scent.