defined
Americanadjective
-
determined, fixed, or clearly marked out as to extent, outline, or form.
an itchy red rash with sharply defined edges.
-
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.
AI can handle the repeatable, technical workflows that up to this point have defined many entry-level jobs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 15, 2026
The contrast between the quiet, humble Messi and the preening, ostentatious Ronaldo has defined soccer in recent times and certainly fueled its growth and popularity in the U.S. and parts of Asia.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
James Zou, who leads the Artificial Intelligence for Science Lab at Stanford University, told MarketWatch that it’s unclear whether any AI labs have actually reached this loosely defined milestone.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 14, 2026
Poverty in the “richest” nation on the planet is defined at an annual income of $32,000 for a family of four, and $16,000 for a single person.
From Salon ● Sep. 11, 2026
As I am defined, then my name is defined and shaped around me like clothing.
From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia
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.
