[The primary sense of thing is that which comes, falls or happens, like event, from L. evenio.]

1. An event or action; that which happens or falls out, or that which is done, told or proposed. This is the general signification of the word in the Scriptures; as after these things, that is, events.

And the thing was very grievous in Abraham's sight, because of his son. Genesis 21:11.

Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, the thing proceedeth from the Lord. Genesis 24:50.

And Jacob said, all these things are against me. Genesis 42:36.

I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Matthew 21:24.

These things said Esaias when he saw his glory. John 12:41.

In learning French, choose such books as will teach you things as well as language.

2. Any substance; that which is created; any particular article or commodity.

He sent after this manner; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt-- Genesis 45:23.

They took the things which Micah had made. Judges 18:27.

3. An animal; as every living thing; every creeping thing. Genesis 1:24.

[This application of the word is improper, but common in popular and vulgar language.]

4. A portion or part; something.

Wicked men who understand any thing of wisdom--

5. In contempt.

I have a thing in prose.

6. Used of persons in contempt.

See, sons, what things you are,

The poor thing sigh'd.

I'll be this abject thing no more.

7. Used in a sense of honor.

I see thee here,

Thou noble thing!