SUBSTANTIA Meaning and
Definition
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Substantia is a Latin term that translates to "substance" in English. It refers to the essential or fundamental nature or essence of something. The term is extensively used in philosophy, particularly in metaphysics, to denote the underlying reality or being of an entity.
In traditional metaphysical thought, substantia is often associated with the concept of "substance" as understood by philosophers like Aristotle. It implies that there exists an underlying, unchanging essence or substance that defines the true nature of an object or being. This essence is considered to be the ultimate reality that remains constant despite any superficial changes an object or being may undergo.
Substantia can also be used to describe the physical matter that constitutes an entity. In this sense, it refers to the substantial or material aspect of an object. For example, in the context of the human body, substantia can be understood as the physical substance or matter that makes up the body, such as organs, tissues, and cells.
In contemporary philosophical discourse, the concept of substantia is often debated and explored in relation to various ontological theories. It continues to be a fundamental term in metaphysical discussions, serving as a conceptual tool to understand the essential nature of beings and their existence.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Etymology of SUBSTANTIA
The word "substantia" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin verb "substantiare", which means "to substantiate" or "to make something substantial".
The Latin word "substantia" itself is a combination of two elements: "sub", meaning "under" or "below", and "stantia", derived from the Latin verb "stare", meaning "to stand". Therefore, "substantia" can be understood as something that stands or exists underneath or as the foundation of something else.
In philosophy, the term "substance" refers to the essential nature or underlying reality of something. The concept of substance has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, with thinkers like Aristotle discussing the fundamental essence of things. The Latin term "substantia" was often used to translate the Greek philosophical concept of "ousia" into Latin.
Similar spelling words for SUBSTANTIA
- substantiate,
- substantive,
- substantiated,
- substantially,
- substandard,
- substitutable,
- substance,
- substrate,
- substation,
- substitute,
- substratum,
- substantival,
- substantial.
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