definition of
gist

[1] #1 gist n. [effect, essence, burden, core] the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary work. wn

[2] #2 gist n. [kernel, substance, core, center, centre, essence, heart, heart and soul, inwardness, marrow, meat, nub, pith, sum, nitty-gritty] the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; "the gist of the prosecutor's argument"; "the heart and soul of the Republican Party"; "the nub of the story". wn