defined
Americanadjective
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.
Not only was that threshold defined under Buffett’s watch, but the “Oracle of Omaha” himself was consulted before the recent repurchases were made.
From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026
Louisville has long been defined by the Kentucky Derby, but outside the annual influx of celebrities, CEOs and oversize hats, a different story is unfolding.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026
The e-commerce giant reported 136 million active buyers, defined as those who paid for a transaction within the previous 12 months, above the 135.2 million analysts expected.
From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026
Stonington's fleet is ageing, and the lobster industry that once defined this coastline has largely collapsed.
From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026
Elements are defined by the number of protons in their nucleus—all oxygen atoms have eight, and if an atom has six protons, it’s carbon—but the number of neutrons can vary.
From "Meltdown" by Deirdre Langeland
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.
