defined
Americanadjective
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determined, fixed, or clearly marked out as to extent, outline, or form.
an itchy red rash with sharply defined edges.
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Mathematics. having an assigned or determinable value under particular conditions.
Etymology
Origin of defined
First recorded in 1720–30; define ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. )
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.
Though operations are limited to a tightly defined agricultural setting and require a ground operator and visual observer.
From BBC ● Sep. 1, 2026
The fact that he created “roomscapes”—spaces defined entirely by his designs—implied a Wright-like impulse to control the whole environment.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 1, 2026
“It’s saying which decisions are being transferred on day one and which responsibilities are transferring over after a defined ramp-up period.”
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 1, 2026
His 2014 earworm ‘Too Many Cooks’ defined a trajectory that’s become fashionable.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 28, 2026
If you don’t get out there and define yourself, you’ll be quickly and inaccurately defined by others.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
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.
