substance -
n. 1 a the essential material, esp. solid, forming a thing (the
substance was transparent). b a particular kind of material having uniform properties (
this substance is
salt).
2 a reality; solidity (ghosts have no
substance). b seriousness or steadiness of character (there is no
substance in him).
3 the theme or subject of
esp. a work of art, argument, etc. (prefer the
substance to the style).
4 the real meaning or essence of a thing.
5 wealth and possessions (a woman of
substance).
6 Philos. the essential nature
underlying phenomena, which is subject to changes and accidents.
in substance generally; apart from details. [ME f. OF f. L substantia (as SUB-, stare stand)]
