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) ]