WordGarden.iopresent
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /prɪˈzɛnt/
US
- /ˈprɛzənt/
Meanings
Adjective
happening or existing now
in a place or situation; not absent
Noun
something given to someone as a gift
the time that is happening now
Verb
to show, offer, or formally communicate something to others
Beyond the definition
The word "present" is surprisingly versatile! It can be the gift you unwrap on your birthday—something given to you at a specific moment. But it also describes what is happening right now, like the "present day," or being "present" in a conversation, which means being fully engaged with what is unfolding. Finally, "present" can mean to formally introduce someone or something, as in, "Let me present my colleague, Sarah."
Think of it this way: a gift is given in the present moment, and when you present something, you bring it into the present. A politician might present a new policy proposal, while a friend presents you with flowers. It is all about bringing something forward—whether it is a tangible item, an idea, or a person.
The word "present" holds multiple meanings, making it a fascinating example of linguistic flexibility. At its core, "present" relates to time, location, and the act of giving.
Firstly, it signifies the current moment—"in the present day," meaning now. It's what's happening as you read this! This sense of "now" extends to being present, which means being physically here or mentally attentive. Whether it is a student being present for a roll call or a friend being "in the moment" during a conversation, it implies existence in a specific space and time. Note that when used as an adjective or a noun, we emphasize the first syllable: PRE-sent.
Secondly, "present" refers to a gift—something voluntarily transferred to another person. Think of birthday presents, wedding presents, or even a simple gesture of kindness. This meaning stems from the historical idea that a gift is "presented" to someone as an act of sharing.
Finally, "present" functions as a verb meaning to formally introduce, display, or offer something for consideration. A speaker might present their findings at a conference, an actor presents a character on stage, and a company presents a new product to the public. In this verb form, the emphasis shifts to the second syllable: pre-SENT.
So, whether you are talking about time, gifts, or introductions, "present" is all about what exists now, what is given willingly, and what is brought forth for attention. It is a word that connects our immediate surroundings with the act of sharing with others.
Examples
- 1
Gift
I bought my sister a birthday present.
- 2
Attendance
Were you present at the meeting yesterday?
- Patternpresent at + event
there at that event
- 3
Current ownership
The present owner wants to sell the house.
- 4
Current period
At present, we do not have enough staff to open on Sundays.
- Phraseat present
now, for the current period
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Current time
Try to enjoy the present instead of worrying about next year.
- 6
Meeting idea
She presented her idea clearly in the meeting.
- 7
Legal evidence
The lawyer presented new evidence to the court.
- 8
Formal award
The school presented the winner with a certificate.
- Patternpresent someone with + thing
formally give that thing to someone
- 9
Formal introduction
Let me present my colleague, Dr. Hayes.
- 10
Problem appearing
A new problem presented itself after the update.
- Phrasepresent itself
appear or become noticeable
- 11
Medical symptoms
The illness can present with a high fever and a cough.
- Domainin medicine, present with
show particular signs of an illness
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- presentnounverbadjective
Forms
- presentedpast tenseverbnounadjective
- presentspluralnounverbadjective
- presenting-ing formverbnounadjective