Definition of substantive

• a. - Betokening or expressing existence; as, the substantive verb, that is, the verb to be.
• a. - Depending on itself; independent.
• a. - Enduring; solid; firm; substantial.
• a. - Pertaining to, or constituting, the essential part or principles; as, the law substantive.
• n. - A noun or name; the part of speech which designates something that exists, or some object of thought, either material or immaterial; as, the words man, horse, city, goodness, excellence, are substantives.
• v. t. - To substantivize.