Omnipresent - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

existing everywhere at the same time

Omnipresent is used to describe something that is present everywhere at the same time, such as the idea of a deity or a spiritual force.

Synonyms

ever-present, pervading, ubiquitous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
omnipresent	Omnipresent is often used in a more formal, spiritual, or philosophical context to describe something that is present everywhere at the same time. It is commonly associated with deities or abstract concepts. The concept of God is often considered omnipresent in many religions. In the digital age, the influence of the Internet seems omnipresent.
ubiquitous	Ubiquitous is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe something that seems to be present everywhere. It often refers to tangible objects, technologies, or trends. Smartphones have become ubiquitous in modern society. In the summer, ice cream trucks are ubiquitous in the neighborhood.
ever-present	Ever-present is more commonly used in everyday language to describe something that is always there or always happening. It often implies a consistent presence or occurrence. Her ever-present smile made everyone feel welcome. In big cities, noise and traffic are ever-present issues.
pervading	Pervading is usually used to describe something that spreads throughout and is noticeable everywhere. It often conveys the idea of something intangible like a feeling, smell, or influence. A sense of dread pervaded the room as the storm approached. The scent of flowers pervaded the garden.

Examples of usage

The belief in an omnipresent higher power is a common theme in many religions.
Air is omnipresent in our environment, even though it may not always be visible.
Her music seemed to be omnipresent, playing in every store and restaurant we visited.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

Philosophers discuss omnipresence in the context of deities, attributing this quality to gods who are believed to be present in all places at all times.
Many consider omnipresence as a characteristic of a higher power, differentiating it from mere influence.

Literature

In various literary works, characters or themes may explore the idea of an omnipresent entity guiding the story, such as in the works of Charles Dickens.
Authors often play with the concept of omnipresence to create suspense or to provide an overarching narrative voice.

Technology

In the digital age, the internet can be termed omnipresent as it connects people across the entire globe.
With devices and networks, information can seemingly exist everywhere, demonstrating a modern understanding of the concept.

Theology

Many religious traditions hold that their divinity is omnipresent, existing in all places simultaneously, which reassures followers of divine watchfulness.
This belief often provides comfort, suggesting a god that is always available to offer guidance, love, or support.

Origin of 'omnipresent'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'omni' meaning 'all' and 'praesens' meaning 'present'.
It first appeared in English texts in the 1620s, often used in religious contexts to describe the divine nature.

The word 'omnipresent' originated in the late 16th century, combining the prefix 'omni-' meaning 'all' and the word 'present'. It is often used in religious contexts to describe the presence of a divine being or spiritual force that is everywhere at once. The concept of omnipresence has been explored in various philosophical and theological discussions throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,199, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21196 upshot
21197 laud
21198 unbecoming
21199 omnipresent
21200 laceration
21201 scrapped
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Omnipresent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations