entity

noun

en·​ti·​ty ˈen-tə-tē 

ˈe-nə-

plural entities

1

a

: being, existence

especially : independent, separate, or self-contained existence

b

: the existence of a thing as contrasted with its attributes

2

: something that has separate and distinct existence and objective or conceptual reality

3

: an organization (such as a business or governmental unit) that has an identity separate from those of its members

Synonyms of entity

• object
• substance
• reality
• individual

Examples of entity in a Sentence

One division of the company was broken off as a separate entity.

the question of whether extrasensory perception will ever be a scientifically recognized entity

Recent Examples on the Web

In using the hydration breaks as an opportunity to air a few minutes of extra commercials per half, Fox’s World Cup coverage has been classified as an entirely separate entity from Telemundo’s traditional ad-free presentation. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 21 July 2026

Schweikert has presented himself as a more moderate alternative to Biggs, criticizing him for his ties to far-right entities such as the Proud Boys. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 21 July 2026

Putin signed a decree in 2025 allowing foreign companies to reacquire equity in the operating entity, and Exxon has already engaged in quiet talks with Rosneft about re-entry. — Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

The reawakening of the Armadillo brand is being spearheaded by a new Austin entity that acquired the IP rights through a partnership with the original owner, Eddie Wilson. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin entitas, from Latin ent-, ens existing thing, from coined present participle of esse to be — more at is

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing entity

• flow-through entity
• pass-through entity

Rhymes for entity

• identity
• nonentity

Kids Definition

entity

noun

en·​ti·​ty ˈent-ət-ē 

plural entities

: something existing or thought of as existing as a separate and independent thing

Medical Definition

entity

noun

en·​ti·​ty ˈen(t)-ət-ē 

plural entities

: something (as a disease or condition) that has separate and distinct existence and objective or conceptual reality

whether the common cold is an entity has been debated

—Year Book of Medicine

Legal Definition

entity

noun

en·​ti·​ty ˈen-ti-tē 

plural entities

: an organization (as a business or governmental unit) that has a legal identity which is separate from those of its members see also alter ego, instrumentality, juridical person, legal person, pierce