essence

es·sence

noun \ˈes-^ən(t)s\

Definition of ESSENCE

1

: a substance considered to possess in high degree the predominant qualities of a natural product (as a plant or drug) from which it is extracted (as by distillation or infusion)

2

a : essential oil b : an alcoholic solution especially of an essential oil <essence of peppermint> c : an artificial preparation (as an alcoholic solution of one or more esters) used especially in flavoring d : elixir