What does stuff mean?
Stuff is a broad, informal English noun used collectively for objects, materials, belongings, or the content and quality of something. Because it has no single precise referent, it often substitutes for more exact words in conversation. It is normally treated as a mass noun, generally taking expressions such as "some," "much," or "little" rather than a regular plural. Its tone varies with context: "good stuff" is approving, while "stuff and nonsense" is dismissive. The related phrase "the stuff of dreams" presents something as the essential material from which an aspiration is made. As a verb, stuff means to fill a space or container, place something inside, or consume food eagerly. Although often criticized as vague, the word is useful in speech when the exact category matters less than the general idea. In precise formal writing, a specific noun is usually preferable.
Used collectively for things, materials, possessions, or content without specifying their precise nature; in some contexts, it can dismissively mean vague or trivial matter.
"There was enough equipment and other stuff in the workshop to build a small laboratory."
Usually an informal mass noun, though the rare plural "stuffs" can refer to distinct kinds or collections of material.
To fill a space or container with material, put something into a space, or consume food eagerly.
"He stuffed the sack with bread, cheese, and apples for the journey."
The meanings involving food and personal consumption are especially informal.
The usual plural is "stuff" unchanged, especially in the mass sense. The rare countable plural "stuffs" refers to distinct kinds or collections of material.
"They loaded the van with all the stuff for the move."
From a French word for material and supplies, "stuff" grew into English shorthand for almost everything.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of stuff
Stuff entered English from Old French estoffe, a word associated with material and supplies. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, although German Stoff and Dutch stof are close cognates with related meanings. Over time, the word broadened from physical material to things in general, possessions, content, and, in some contexts, trivial or nonsensical matter.
Related word forms
How stuff is actually used
The noun is common in informal speech and is often less precise than a more specific term such as equipment, materials, belongings, or details. It can be approving, as in "good stuff," or dismissive, as in "stuff and nonsense." The verb is also informal in many uses, especially when it means to eat greedily or fill oneself with food.
Easily confused with stuff
Stuff refers collectively to material, objects, or content, whereas stuffing specifically means a filling or padding placed inside something.