Emily Dickinson Lexicon

EV-A-NES'CENCE, n. [L. evanescens, from evanesco; e and vanesco, to vanish, from vanus, vain, empty. See Vain.]

1. A vanishing; a gradual departure from sight or possession, either by removal to a distance, or by dissipation, as vapor.
2. The state of being liable to vanish and escape possession.