English · Arts & Literature
essay
/ˈɛs.eɪ/
[/ˈɛs.eɪ/]
short non-fiction piece
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A short piece of writing that presents the author's argument or thoughts on a subject.
Example
For homework, she wrote an essay arguing that cities should plant far more trees.
For homework, she wrote an essay arguing that cities should plant far more trees.
Etymology
From French 'essai' (an attempt, trial), from Latin 'exagium' (a weighing); popularised by Montaigne.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in education, journalism, and literary writing.
Literary Heritage
Michel de Montaigne's 16th-century 'Essais' gave the form its name and shape.