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substantive

Dictionary definition · substantive

noun

  1. any word or group of words functioning as a noun

adjective

  1. of or relating to the real nature or essential elements of something"a substantial argument"
  2. defining rights and duties as opposed to giving the rules by which rights and duties are established"substantive law"
  3. being on topic and prompting thought"a meaty discussion"

Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).