Entry Word: stuff

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a skill, an ability, or knowledge that makes a person able to do a particular job <a guy who has the stuff it takes to be team captain> — see qualification 1
2 the basic elements from which something can be developed <reading, writing, and arithmetic—the stuff of an education> — see making
3 the quality or qualities that make a thing what it is <the real stuff of nobility of character isnʼt riches or a title, but honor and integrity> — see essence