being

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the state or fact of existing

   a point of view gradually coming into being

2. 2
   noun

   A living creature.

   Minute grew into minute, and still there was no sign of life, nor did the curtain move; but I felt the gaze of the unknown being sinking through and through me, and filling me with a nameless terror, till the perspiration stood in beads upon my brow.

3. 3
   noun

   The state or fact of existence, consciousness, or life, or something in such a state.

   1608-1634, John Webster (and perhaps Thomas Heywood), Appius and Virginia Claudius, thou / Wast follower of his fortunes in his being.

4. 4
   noun

   An abode; a cottage.

   It was a relief to dismiss them [Sir Roger's servants] into little beings within my manor.

5. 5
   conj

   Given that; since.

   ’Tis a hard matter therefore to confine them, being they are so various and many […].

6. 6
   noun

   a living thing that has (or can develop) the ability to act or function independently

7. 7
   verb

   present participle and gerund of be

8. 8
   noun

   That which has actuality (materially or in concept).

Etymology

Originated 1250–1300 from Middle English being; see be + -ing.