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View synonyms for define

define

[dih-fahyn]

verb (used with object)

defined, defining 
  1. to state or set forth the meaning of (a word, phrase, etc.).

    They disagreed on how to define “liberal.”

  2. to explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of; describe.

    to define judicial functions.

  3. to fix or lay down clearly and definitely; specify distinctly.

    to define one's responsibilities.

  4. to determine or fix the boundaries or extent of.

    to define property with stakes.

  5. to make clear the outline or form of.

    The roof was boldly defined against the sky.



verb (used without object)

defined, defining 
  1. to set forth the meaning of a word, phrase, etc.; construct a definition.

define

/ dɪˈfaɪn /

verb

  1. to state precisely the meaning of (words, terms, etc)

  2. to describe the nature, properties, or essential qualities of

  3. to determine the boundary or extent of

  4. (often passive) to delineate the form or outline of

    the shape of the tree was clearly defined by the light behind it

  5. to fix with precision; specify

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • definable adjective
  • definability noun
  • 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
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Word History and Origins

Origin of define1

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
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Word History and Origins

Origin of define1

C14: from Old French definer to determine, from Latin dēfīnīre to set bounds to, from fīnīre to finish
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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.

The only clue from the excavation team is that Ness is "a site that can be seen to be defined by straight lines and rectangular forms, from the architecture down to the art".

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A very good pitch is defined having "good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce early in the match, allowing for a balanced contest between batters and bowlers".

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MK30 drones External link fly defined routes at altitudes between 115 feet and 400 feet.

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MK30 drones External link fly defined routes at altitudes between 115 feet and 400 feet.

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But the order requires only that special regard be given to classical and traditional styles for federal buildings, defined broadly to include everything from Gothic to Pueblo Revival, and Spanish Colonial to Art Deco.

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defilementdefined