iden·ti·ty n pl -ties
1: sameness of essential character or aspect
collateral estoppel requires identity of the issues and the parties
2 a: separate or distinct existence
when movables lose their identity or become an integral part of the immovable — Louisiana Civil Code
b: distinguishing character of a person; esp: information (as a name or address) that distinguishes a person
is required to reveal the identity of an informer
but for a mistake concerning the identity of the proper party — Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 15(c)
3: the condition of being the same as a thing or person described, claimed, or accused
character evidence of a suspect's past crimes may be admitted to prove the identity of a crime's perpetrator
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.