A topic, issue, argument, or objective. The main subject or focus of a discussion, discourse, etc.; the nub or essence of a matter; the central or…

The innermost or central part of a thing; the essential or vital part; the spirit or essence; the core, the nub. Frequently in pith and marrow.

In extended use. A point or matter of contention between two or more parties; an important or central area of disagreement. Now rare except as…

gen. Something drawn or taken out of a thing; also figurative the ‘pith’ of a matter. Obsolete.

The crux or central point of a discussion or argument. Obsolete.

figurative. That on which something is conceived to hang or be supported and to turn; a pivot, prop. The cardinal point of a discussion or…

The essence of a matter or thing, the most important focus of attention or consideration; (also) a point for discussion, a proposition (cf. puncta…

Law. Any thing in respect of which a person may claim a right.

The real ground or point of an action at law; (hence) the substance or pith of any matter; = gist, n.3

The substance or pith of a matter, the essence or main part.

Originally U.S. The fundamental and most important or determining factor; the essence, the point, the crux of the argument; the final analysis…

colloquial. just it: precisely the issue or point in question.

figurative. The chief problem; the central or decisive point of interest.