Meaning & use
hypostasis
Last updated
the underlying substance or essential nature of something, especially as distinguished from its attributes
See it in a sentence
The theologian's lecture explored the concept of hypostasis in early Christian debates about the nature of Christ.
Philosophers have long argued over whether the mind is a true hypostasis or simply a set of processes.
A note on using this word
A highly technical word with distinct meanings in different fields: in theology and philosophy it refers to underlying essence or a person of the Trinity, while in medicine it refers to blood settling in the lower parts of the body after death.
Words with a similar meaning
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Another way to use it
2. noun
(medicine) the settling of blood in the lower parts of the body due to poor circulation or after death
The medical examiner noted signs of hypostasis to help estimate the time of death.
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