That which is considered to exist as a separate entity, object, quality or concept.
Understanding thing
• A word, symbol, sign, or other referent that can be used to refer to any entity.
• An individual object or distinct entity.
• Whatever can be owned. Corporeal object.
• Whatever can be owned.
• Corporeal object.
• Possessions or equipment; stuff; gear.
• The latest fad or fashion.
• A custom or practice.
• A genuine concept, entity or phenomenon; something that actually exists (often contrary to expectation or belief). .mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller}
• A unit or container, usually containing consumable goods.
• A problem, dilemma, or complicating factor.
• A penis.
• A vulva or vagina.
• A living being or creature.
• Used after a noun to refer dismissively to the situation surrounding the noun's referent.
• That which is favoured; personal preference.
• One's typical routine, habits, or manner.
• A public assembly or judicial council in a Germanic country.
• A romantic relationship.
• A romantic couple.
• Alternative form of ting.
• Girl; attractive woman.
(Verb) To express as a thing; to reify.
How thing affects you
thing appears in U.S. legal practice across multiple practice areas. Knowing what it means — and when it applies — can determine the outcome of motions, filings, and negotiations. For non-lawyers, the value of looking up a precise definition is that legal terms often carry meanings that differ from everyday usage; relying on the common meaning can lead to costly missteps.
The mechanics of thing
In practice, thing is invoked when parties, judges, or attorneys need to identify the legal status of an issue, the rights of those involved, or the procedural step required next. The definition shown above is sourced from Wiktionary , which is widely cited in U.S. legal practice. Because U.S. law is jurisdictionally layered — federal, state, and sometimes local — the precise application of the term can vary by court, so check the controlling authority for your specific case.