Originally posted by tim60 Stuff is a wonderful English word, with quite old origins. Stuff was considered a formal word in 1611, used in KJV (sorry religious reference), to mean both things and material. The only other English word with this meaning is the poncy French origin word "materiel".
Every other word in English refers to either things or to materials, but not both in one word. The tyranny of the division between count and mass nouns!
There is another word, usually considered vulgar and offensive. The origin is unclear, although some may say it is English, and it is generally considered and English language word. But the actual origin of the word is unclear, the first occurrences at about the mid 1400's.
It is a very versatile word, and can be used in the position of a noun, a verb, an adjective or an adverb. There are many common phrases that employ the word, as well as compounds incorporating it.
But to keep on the good side of our Great And Omnipotent Moderator, I shall refrain from actually typing it here.
I am positive that we all know the word I am discussing.
And with that, I shall say, "Enough of that STUFF!"