Definition of present

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< presence of mind

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pres·ent¹    (prznt) KEY 

NOUN:

1. A moment or period in time perceptible as intermediate between past and future; now.
2. Grammar
   1. The present tense.
   2. A verb form in the present tense.
3. presents Law The document or instrument in question: Be it known by these presents.

ADJECTIVE:

1. Existing or happening now; current: the present leader; present trends.
2. 1. Being at hand or in attendance: Thirty guests were present at the ceremony.
   2. Existing in something specified: Oxygen is present in the bloodstream.
3. Now being considered; actually here or involved: the present subject; present company excepted.
4. Grammar Designating a verb tense or form that expresses current time.
5. Archaic Readily available; immediate.
6. Obsolete Alert to circumstances; attentive.

IDIOMS:
at present

At the present time; right now.

for the present

For the time being; temporarily.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from Latin praesns, praesent- present participle of praeesse, to be present : prae-, pre- + esse, to be; see es- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
present·ness(Noun)