nonessential

adjective

non·​es·​sen·​tial ˌnän-i-ˈsen(t)-shəl 

1

: not essential

2

: being a substance synthesized by the body in sufficient quantity to satisfy dietary needs

nonessential fatty acids

see also nonessential amino acid compare essential sense 2b

nonessential noun

Synonyms of nonessential

• unnecessary

Examples of nonessential in a Sentence

All nonessential personnel had to be laid off.

Please avoid all nonessential uses of water.

Recent Examples on the Web

Disable any software running on the computer that is nonessential and always close applications when you are finished using them. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2026

On March 19, 2020, California issued a statewide order directing people to stay at home and all nonessential businesses to close. — Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026

That could hurt businesses focusing on nonessential items and services for many people, such as travel and entertainment. — ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

Charlotte water restrictions are successfully curbing nonessential water use amid an ongoing drought. — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing nonessential

• nonessential amino acid

Rhymes for nonessential

• consequential
• deferential
• existential
• exponential
• influential
• penitential
• precedential
• preferential
• presidential
• providential
• referential
• residential

Kids Definition

nonessential

adjective

non·​es·​sen·​tial ˌnän-i-ˈsen-chəl 

: not necessary or essential

nonessential noun

Medical Definition

nonessential

adjective

non·​es·​sen·​tial -i-ˈsen-chəl 

: being a substance synthesized by the body in sufficient quantity for normal health and growth

a nonessential fatty acid

compare essential