The main body of matter in a manuscript, book, newspaper, etc., as distinguished from notes, appendixes, headings, illustrations, etc.
The actual wording of anything written or printed.
Any of the various forms in which a writing exists (Dictionary.com).
Etymology (EN): M.E., from L. textus “text, terms, structure,” originally, “pattern of weaving,” → texture, from texere “to weave.”
Etymology (PE): Bâfé, from bâftan “to weave,” → texture.