indefinite

[in-def-uh-nit]

adjective

1. not definite; without fixed or specified limit; unlimited.

   an indefinite number.

   Synonyms: indeterminate, unspecified
   Antonyms: determinate

2. not clearly defined or determined; not precise or exact.

   an indefinite boundary; an indefinite date in the future.

   Synonyms: uncertain, vague, confusing, indistinct, inexact, imprecise
   Antonyms: specific, clear, determinate

3. Grammar.

   1. indefinite article.

   2. indefinite pronoun.

4. Botany.

   1. very numerous or not easily counted, as stamens.

   2. (of an inflorescence) indeterminate.

indefinite

/ ɪnˈdɛfɪnɪt /

adjective

1. not certain or determined; unsettled

2. without exact limits; indeterminate

   an indefinite number

3. vague, evasive, or unclear

4. Also: indeterminate. botany

   1. too numerous to count

      indefinite stamens

   2. capable of continued growth at the tip of the stem, which does not terminate in a flower

      an indefinite inflorescence

Other Word Forms

• indefinitely adverb
• indefiniteness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of indefinite¹

From the Latin word indēfīnītus, dating back to 1520–30. See in- ³, definite

Example Sentences

Earlier this week, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out her plans to make it similarly harder for migrants to qualify for indefinite leave to remain.

From BBC

It comes after Sir Keir described Reform UK's policy of scrapping indefinite leave to remain as "racist" and accused Farage of not liking Britain.

From BBC

His comments came after his home secretary set out plans to tighten rules for migrants seeking indefinite leave to remain during a Labour Party conference focused on how to beat an insurgent Reform UK.

From BBC

If these convicts are to taste freedom, they'll have to fight on some of the most dangerous parts of the front line for an indefinite period.

From BBC

Reform said it would replace indefinite leave to remain with visas that force migrants - including non-EU nationals who already have the status - to reapply every five years.

From BBC

Related Words

• infinite 
• undefined 
• undetermined 
• unlimited