thing

THING, noun [The primary sense of thing is that which comes, falls or happens, like event, from Latin evenio.] 1. An event or action; that which happens or falls out, or that which is done, told or proposed. This is the general signification of the word in the Scriptures; as after these things, that is, events. And the thing was very grievous in Abraham's sight, because of his son. Genesis 21:11. Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, the thing proceedeth from the Lord. Genesis 24:50. And Jacob said, all these things are against me. Gen 42. I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Matthew 21:24. These things said Esaias when he saw his glory. John 12:16. In learning French, choose such books as will teach you things as well as language. 2. Any substance; that which is created; any particular article or commodity. He sent after this manner; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt-- Gen 42. They took the things which Micah had made. Judges 18:7. 3. An animal; as every living thing; every creeping thing Gen 1. [This application of the word is improper, but common in popular and vulgar language.] 4. A portion or part; something. Wicked men who understand any thing of wisdom-- 5. In contempt. I have a thing in prose. 6. Used of persons in contempt. See, sons, what things you are, The poor thing sigh'd. I'll be this abject thing no more. 7. Used in a sense of honor. I see thee here, Thou noble thing!