1. (n.) The essence, nature, or distinctive peculiarity, of a thing; that which answers the question, Quid est? or, What is it?

2. (n.) A trifling nicety; a cavil; a quibble.

axiom cavil center core dodge elixir essence essential flower focus fundamental gist gravamen heart hypostasis inner essence jesuitism kernel marrow meat nub nucleus nuts and bolts pith postulate principle quibble quid quillet quintessence quip quirk quodlibet sap shuffle soul spirit stuff substance the nitty-gritty