The word originates from Latin substantia, literally meaning "standing under". The word was used to translate the Greek philosophical term ousia. Substance may refer to: Substance theory, in philosophy, that element of an object without which it wouldn't exist, or what exists only by itself (causa sui) Chemical substance, in chemistry, are material objects that can undergo various transformations related to artificial or natural phenomena Substance (artist) Substance (Joy Division album) Su… (More on Substance)