noun
- any matter, circumstance, affair, or concern: often used in pl.: how are things?
- that which is done, has been done, or is to be done; happening, act, deed, incident, event, etc.: to accomplish great things
- that which constitutes an end to be achieved, a step in a process, etc.: the next thing is to mix thoroughly
- anything conceived of or referred to as existing as an individual, distinguishable entity; specif.,
- any single entity distinguished from all others: each thing in the universe
- a tangible object, as distinguished from a concept, quality, etc.: paintings and other beautiful things
- an inanimate object
- an item, detail, etc.: go over each thing in the list
- the object or concept referred to or represented by a word, symbol, or sign; referent
- an object of thought; idea: think the right things
- personal belongings; also, clothes or clothing
- a dress, garment, etc.: not a thing to wear
- articles, devices, etc. used for some purpose
- a person: used in expressions of affection, pity, contempt, etc.: poor thing
- a being, object, or concept the exact term for which is not known or recalled or is avoided, as from disdain: where did you buy that thing?
- Informal a point of contention; issue: don't make a thing of it
- ☆ Informal a complex, often neurotic liking, fear, aversion, etc. with regard to some person, thing, or activity: to have a thing about flying
- ☆ Informal what one wants to do or is adept at: do one's own thing
- Law that which may be owned; a property
Origin:
ME < OE, council, court, controversy, akin to Ger ding, ON thing (orig. sense, “public assembly,” hence, “subject of discussion, matter, thing”) < IE *tenk-, to stretch, period of time < base *ten-, to stretch > thin