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.

   Synonyms: enumerate, detail, describe, name, state

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

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

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

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

Example Sentences

Allemand is headed to Turkey to play professionally this offseason but hopes to return next season — a return that might hinge on a more defined role.

From Los Angeles Times

His style is orthodox, with a great ability to cut off the ring, wear down his opponents and land powerful punches that can define fights.

From Los Angeles Times

The 37-year-old American looked in incredible shape, with defined abs showing despite the extra weight he has carried for this potential history-making fight.

From BBC

The movie itself defined the modern summer blockbuster, spending 14 consecutive weeks at the top of the U.S. box office and becoming a global phenomenon that changed how Hollywood released its biggest films.

From Los Angeles Times

According to charity National Energy Action, fuel poverty is defined as people who spend more than 10% of their money on energy bills.

From BBC

Related Words

• characterize 
• construe 
• decide 
• delineate 
• describe 
• designate 
• detail 
• determine 
• exemplify 
• explain 
• illustrate 
• interpret 
• prescribe 
• represent 
• specify 
• spell out