Entity

Definition

Entity refers to something that exists as a distinct and independent unit, whether it is a living being, an organization, or an abstract concept. The term is often used in law, philosophy, and business to denote an individual or collective that has a distinct existence.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛntɪti/
• Respelling: EN-tuh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛntɪti/
• Respelling: EN-tuh-tee

The pronunciation of "entity" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "entity" originates from the Medieval Latin word "entitas," which is derived from the Latin "ens," meaning "being" or "existence." The suffix "-ity" is used to form nouns indicating a state or condition, giving the term its meaning as a distinct, existing being or thing.

Derivatives

• Entitative (adjective)
• Nonentity (noun)
• Entity-based (adjective)
• Superentity (noun)
• Subentity (noun)

Synonyms

• Being
• Existence
• Object

Antonyms

• Nonexistence
• Nothingness
• Void

Usage

The word "entity" is widely used in various fields such as law, philosophy, and business. It is commonly used to describe organizations, legal bodies, or any distinct unit that exists independently. The term can also refer to abstract concepts, such as a fictional character in literature.

Related Terms

• Individual: A single human being distinct from a group, class, or family.
• Corporation: A company or group of people authorized to act as a single entity and recognized as such in law.
• Substance: The real physical matter of which a person or thing consists and which has a tangible, solid presence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Something that exists as a distinct and independent unit: Refers to any being, object, or concept that has its own distinct existence.
  • Example: "The company is a legal entity separate from its owners."
• An organization or business that has a legal and separate existence: Refers to a group or organization that functions as a distinct unit, especially in legal contexts.
  • Example: "The nonprofit organization operates as an independent entity."
• A thing with distinct and independent existence: Describes anything that exists as a single, self-contained unit, whether physical or abstract.
  • Example: "In the story, the mysterious entity appeared out of nowhere."