1. the essential nature or quality that makes something what it is
Usage: formal; philosophical
2. a minor point or trivial distinction, especially in argument
Usage: formal

Examples

• The philosopher pondered the quiddity of human consciousness.
• What is the quiddity that distinguishes art from mere decoration?
• The lawyer focused on legal quiddities rather than the main issue.
• She dismissed his objection as a mere quiddity.
• The debate got bogged down in quiddities about terminology.
• Understanding the quiddity of democracy requires examining its core principles.