substance

the real physical matter of which a person or thing consists; "DNA is the substance of our genes"

the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; "the gist of the prosecutor's argument"; "the heart and soul of the Republican Party"; "the nub of the story"

the idea that is intended; "What is the meaning of this proverb?"

material of a particular kind or constitution; "the immune response recognizes invading substances"

considerable capital (wealth or income); "he is a man of means"

what a communication that is about something is about

a particular kind or species of matter with uniform properties; "shigella is one of the most toxic substances known to man"