öz

Öz is a Turkish noun meaning essence, core, or self. It denotes the intrinsic nature of a thing or person and is used to discuss authenticity, inner character, or the true nature of something.

In Turkish usage, the concept of öz appears in philosophical and literary contexts as well as in a range of expressions that express inner qualities or fundamental identity. It is often contrasted with outward appearances in discussions of selfhood and what defines a person, object, or culture at its core.

Orthographically, öz is written with the letter Ö (O with diaeresis). In cross-linguistic contexts or when Turkish text is rendered without diacritics, it is commonly represented as Oz.

As a surname, Öz is widespread in Turkey and among Turkish-speaking communities. It also occurs as a component of given names and in many fixed expressions that emphasize internality, authenticity, or selfhood. The term and its derivatives have broad usage across Turkish language, culture, and literature, reflecting its central place in describing what lies at the heart of things.