define
Americanverb (used with object)
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to state or set forth the meaning of (a word, phrase, etc.).
They disagreed on how to define “liberal.”
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to explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of; describe.
to define judicial functions.
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to fix or lay down clearly and definitely; specify distinctly.
to define one's responsibilities.
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to determine or fix the boundaries or extent of.
to define property with stakes.
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to make clear the outline or form of.
The roof was boldly defined against the sky.
verb (used without object)
verb
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to state precisely the meaning of (words, terms, etc)
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to describe the nature, properties, or essential qualities of
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to determine the boundary or extent of
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(often passive) to delineate the form or outline of
the shape of the tree was clearly defined by the light behind it
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to fix with precision; specify
Other Word Forms
- definability noun
- definable adjective
- definably adverb
- definement noun
- definer noun
- misdefine verb (used with object)
- nondefinability noun
- nondefinable adjective
- nondefinably adverb
- nondefined adjective
- nondefiner noun
- predefine verb (used with object)
- redefine verb (used with object)
- self-defined adjective
- semidefined adjective
- undefinable adjective
Etymology
Origin of define
First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English def(f)inen, from Anglo-French, Old French definer “to put an end to,” from Latin dēfīnīre ”to limit, define,“ equivalent to dē- “from, away from, out of” + fīnīre “to end”; de-, finish
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
E.l.f. reported the results as demand for cosmetics and skin-care products continues to hold up despite rising prices and tariffs, and as the beauty industry remains defined by cleaner, minimalist looks and wellness.
From MarketWatch
“If Jeff Bezos is no longer willing to invest the mission that has defined this paper for generations…then The Post deserves a steward who will.”
From Salon
“The question is how the administration defines the interests of the United States,” Abrams said.
From Los Angeles Times
His role in the group has always been difficult to define because he’s something of an on-the-fly producer and remixer, processing existing sounds and adding warped samples rather than playing a conventional instrument.
They debated whether to define Warsh as an inflation “hawk” — that is, pressing for higher interest rates to keep inflation in check — or a “dove” — advocating lower rates to spur economic growth.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
