Meaning of the Word
An entity refers to something that exists as a distinct, independent, or self-contained unit. It can be a person, organization, object, or concept that has its own existence and identity.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A thing with distinct and independent existence, either physical or conceptual.
- A being or organization that has its own identity or existence.
- In philosophy, a being or something that exists as a distinct unit.
History and Origin
The word “entity” comes from the Latin ens, meaning “being” or “existence,” and is derived from the verb esse, meaning “to be.” It was first used in English in the 15th century, primarily in philosophical contexts to describe a being or existence. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass organizations, businesses, and abstract concepts that can be treated as distinct units.
Detailed Explanation
An entity can be anything that has a distinct, identifiable existence. This includes physical objects like a person or a company, as well as abstract concepts like an idea, a contract, or even a law. In business and legal contexts, “entity” often refers to a company or organization with its own legal identity, separate from its owners or members. In a broader sense, it can also apply to any individual thing that is treated as a unit in discussions or analysis, such as a government, institution, or cultural phenomenon.
Example Sentences
- The company was established as a separate legal entity from its parent organization.
- In philosophy, every entity is considered to have its own essence and existence.
- The charity is a non-profit entity focused on improving education in underdeveloped areas.
- The government views the city as a separate entity with its own rules and regulations.
- The organization became a significant entity in the field of environmental protection.
- In the movie, the alien entity had the power to control minds.
- The new software system allows each department to function as an independent entity.
- They formed an entity for the purpose of pooling their resources and maximizing efficiency.
- The committee is an entity within the larger framework of the council.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Being – Something that exists as an independent entity, whether physical or abstract.
- Organization – A group of people or a body that is treated as a distinct entity for legal or operational purposes.
- Unit – An individual part of a whole that functions independently but is part of a larger system.
- Existence – The state of being real or having actual presence, especially in a distinct form.
- Body – A group or collection of individuals or things regarded as a single entity.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Corporation – A legal entity that is separate from its owners and typically engaged in business activities.
- Individual – A single, distinct entity, often referring to a person.
- Structure – A system or organization considered as a unified entity.
- Institution – An established organization or entity with a particular purpose or function.
- Component – A part or element of a larger entity, often used in technical or organizational contexts.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Organization – A structured group of people with a specific purpose, treated as a single entity.
- Entity type – A classification in databases or information systems, referring to objects or things that are treated as distinct units.
- Individuality – The unique characteristics or identity of a particular entity.
- Beingness – The state of existing as a distinct entity, especially in philosophical terms.
- Association – A group or entity formed for a specific purpose, often social or professional.
Antonyms
- Nonentity
- Collective
- Absence
- Unification
- Amorphousness