Thing

A philosophical concept denoting an existing entity or object.

A concept representing an entity or object, often used in philosophy and logic to denote any item that exists.

/θɪŋ/

From Middle English þing, thing, from Old English þing, a thing, assembly, matter to be decided.

A 'thing' is just a word we use to describe anything that exists, like a cat, a tree, or even an idea.

The word 'thing' is one of the oldest in the English language
Ancient Greek philosophers used the term 'ousia' which is often translated as 'thing'
In some philosophical traditions, everything is considered a 'thing'

What is a thing? Anything that exists or can be conceived of
Is 'thing' used in philosophy? Yes, it is a fundamental concept in metaphysics and ontology
Can abstract ideas be things? Yes, philosophical 'things' can include concepts like justice or beauty

entity object

object entity concept

abstract conceptual