defining

American  

[dih-fahy-ning] / dɪˈfaɪ nɪŋ /

adjective

1. decisive; critically important.

   Taking a course in architecture was a defining turn in her life.

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Other Word Forms

• nondefining adjective
• self-defining adjective

Example Sentences

If the cleanup condensates break down, harmful proteins can build up, which is a defining feature of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.

From Science Daily

“Voters feel hammered by cost-of-living realities, so affordability will be a defining issue for them.”

From Los Angeles Times

In the near term, volatility is likely to remain a defining characteristic of digital asset markets.

From Barron's

Don’t expect Beijing to take a conservative approach to defining military uses here.

From The Wall Street Journal

These questions are integral to defining who has consciousness — and what that means for how we treat those beings.

From Los Angeles Times