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

• 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

The Mexican gray wolves in the Bear Canyon and Dillon Mountain packs are a part of an experimental, nonessential population of endangered wolves living in Arizona and New Mexico. —John Leos, AZCentral.com, 24 Aug. 2025

Target is known for its trendier items, and the chain stocks more nonessential merchandise than its competitors. —Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2025

Streamline operations and cut nonessential expenses without sacrificing quality. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

Blood vessels in the limbs constrict, reducing blood flow (and oxygen) to nonessential areas while redirecting it to the heart, brain and lungs. —Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing nonessential

• nonessential amino acid

Rhymes for nonessential

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

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