Pith

Pith refers to the soft, spongy tissue in the center of the stems or branches of many plants and trees, especially dicotyledons. Figuratively, it represents the essential part, the core, or the most important aspect of something. It can also imply energy, forcefulness, or conciseness, particularly in speech or writing, suggesting a concentrated and impactful expression. The term often carries the connotation of substance and significance, contrasting with superficial or unimportant elements.

Pith meaning with examples

• The botany student carefully dissected the stem, pointing out the pith as the nutrient transport center and explaining how its structure varied across different species of flowering plants depending on their growing environment.
• The orator stripped away all the flowery language and got right to the pith of the matter, directly addressing the core issues of economic inequality and political injustice with passion.
• Despite the lengthy document, it lacked pith; the essential message was buried beneath layers of unnecessary detail, leaving the reader struggling to understand its significance or meaning.
• The old explorer, though frail in body, retained the pith of his adventurous spirit, eagerly recounting tales of his daring exploits in remote, uncharted regions of the world.