matter

Definition

Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. This includes everything around us, from the air we breathe to the food we eat to the clothes we wear.

Matter can be found in three different states: solid, liquid, and gas. Solids have a definite shape and volume, liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape, and gases have no definite shape or volume.

Matter can also be classified into different categories based on its properties. Some common categories of matter include solids, liquids, gases, and plasmas. Plasmas are found in stars and other places where there is a lot of heat and energy.

How can the word be used?

The matter of the universe is still a mystery.

Different forms of the word

Noun:

That which occupies space and has mass.
A subject of discussion or concern.
Something that is important or significant.

Verb:

To be of importance or significance.
To have weight or substance.
To be a subject of discussion or concern.

Adjective:

Important or significant.
Having weight or substance.
Relating to or consisting of matter.

Etymology

The word "matter" comes from the Old English word "mætter", which means "that which occupies space".

The word "matter" was first used in English in the 10th century. It was originally used to describe anything that occupied space and had mass, but it soon came to be used in a more general sense to describe anything that was important or significant.

Question

What is matter?