MacGuffin

A MacGuffin is a narrative device in stories, movies, or plays—an object, goal, or piece of information that characters seek or pursue. Its primary purpose is to motivate the characters' actions and drive the plot forward. The specific nature of the MacGuffin often matters less than its role in triggering events and interactions; it may be of great importance to the characters but is usually secondary or interchangeable from the audience's perspective. Examples include a valuable jewel, secret documents, or a mysterious artifact—serving as a catalyst for the story without necessarily having intrinsic significance.