Substantial definition : Considerable in importance, value, degree, amount, or extent. Factsheet What does the word substantial mean ? There are 27 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word substantial , six of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘ Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. Something substantial is large in size, number, or amount: If you want to say someone spent a lot of money without being too specific, you could say they spent a substantial amount of money. The word ' substantial ' evolved over time to describe something of considerable size, amount, or importance. Its etymology reflects the concept of something having a solid and significant presence, emphasizing its substantial nature without directly delving into its meaning .