01 n. That which is proper to anything; a peculiar quality of a thing; that which is inherent in a subject, or naturally essential to it; an attr…
pl.
Properties ((#))
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1.
That which is proper to anything; a peculiar quality of a thing; that which is inherent in a subject, or naturally essential to it; an attribute; as, sweetness is a property of sugar.“Property is correctly a synonym for peculiar quality; but it is frequently used as coextensive with quality in general.” — Sir W. Hamilton.
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2.
An acquired or artificial quality; that which is given by art, or bestowed by man; as, the poem has the properties which constitute excellence.
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3.
The exclusive right of possessing, enjoying, and disposing of a thing; ownership; title.“Here I disclaim all my paternal care, Propinquity and property of blood.” — Shak.“Shall man assume a property in man?” — Wordsworth.
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4.
That to which a person has a legal title, whether in his possession or not; thing owned; an estate, whether in lands, goods, or money; as, a man of large property, or small property.
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5.
All the adjuncts of a play except the scenery and the dresses of the actors; stage requisites.“I will draw a bill of properties.” — Shak.
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6.
Propriety; correctness.[Obs.]
Phrases & compounds
Literary property —
See under Literary.
Property man —
one who has charge of the “properties” of a theater.