nonessential

adjective

non·​es·​sen·​tial ˌnän-i-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce nonessential (audio)
Synonyms of nonessentialnext
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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Among study respondents, 41% reported cutting restaurant meals or food delivery, while 40% eliminated nonessential online shopping. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026 Under the new measures announced Sunday, nonessential Congolese travelers will be returned through the nearest border crossing at their own expense, while those entering illegally face prosecution, the Ugandan ministry said. — Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026 Residents continue to face limitations on nonessential water uses, such as when they are allowed to water their lawns. — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2026 Shell is evacuating nonessential personnel from six offshore platforms, while BP is removing nonessential workers and securing its offshore facilities, the companies said Tuesday. — Briana Waxman, CNN Money, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonessential

Word History

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonessential was in 1751

Phrases Containing nonessential

Rhymes for nonessential

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Browse Nearby Words

none-so-pretty
nonessential
nonessential amino acid
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Cite this Entry

“Nonessential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonessential. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

nonessential

adjective
non·​es·​sen·​tial ˌnän-i-ˈsen-chəl How to pronounce nonessential (audio)
: not necessary or essential
nonessential noun

Medical Definition

nonessential

adjective
non·​es·​sen·​tial -i-ˈsen-chəl How to pronounce nonessential (audio)
: being a substance synthesized by the body in sufficient quantity for normal health and growth
a nonessential fatty acid
compare essential
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