Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Be.

2. (p. pr.) Existing.

3. (n.) Existence, as opposed to nonexistence; state or sphere of existence.

4. (n.) That which exists in any form, whether it be material or spiritual, actual or ideal; living existence, as distinguished from a thing without life; as, a human being; spiritual beings.

5. (n.) Lifetime; mortal existence.

6. (n.) An abode; a cottage.

7. (adv.) Since; inasmuch as.