definite article

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noun Grammar.

an article, as English the, that classes as identified or definite the noun it modifies.

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Origin of definite article

First recorded in1755–65

Words nearby definite article

definiendum, definiens, defining, defining moment, definite, definite article, definite description, definite integral, definitely, definite relative clause, definite relative pronoun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use definite article in a sentence

The new film, which has been described as less of a sequel than a soft reboot, boasts more than a definite article.
12 summer movies that just might get you off the couch and into the theater|Michael O'Sullivan|June 3, 2021|Washington Post
This same outlet worked the phrase “engagement to toyboy lover” into the headline of their article on Fry.
Freaking Out About Age Gaps in Gay Relationships Is Homophobic|Samantha Allen|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST
That article noted that the F-35 does not currently have the ability to down-link live video to ground troops,.
Pentagon Misfires in Stealth Jet Scandal|Dave Majumdar|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST
Do you think that as we get older our thoughts shift to the more abstract, the music, than the definite, the lyrics?
Belle & Sebastian Aren’t So Shy Anymore|James Joiner|January 7, 2015|DAILY BEAST

This article was adapted from one originally published by IranWire.
What an Iranian Funeral Tells Us About the Wars in Iraq|IranWire|January 6, 2015|DAILY BEAST
“The origin of Brokpas is lost in antiquity,” a research article from the University of Delhi notes.
The Himalayas’ Hidden Aryans|Nina Strochlic|January 3, 2015|DAILY BEAST
Aguinaldo withheld his decision until Paterno could report to him the definite opinions of his generals.
The Philippine Islands|John Foreman
Quantitative estimation does not furnish much of definite clinical value.
A Manual of Clinical Diagnosis|James Campbell Todd
That she had her definite reason he knew, as a woman knows when another woman is wearing a last year's gown.
Bella Donna|Robert Hichens
He even fancied that something of challenge flashed from her, though without definite words or gesture.
The Wave|Algernon Blackwood
Much later, in the case of all but gifted children, do the mysteries of harmony begin to take on definite form and meaning.
Children's Ways|James Sully

British Dictionary definitions for definite article

definite article

noun

grammar a determiner that expresses specificity of reference, such as the in EnglishCompare indefinite article

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

Cultural definitions for definite article

definite article

The word the; the article that precedes names of specific items: “the dog,” “the boats,” “the heavy anchor.” (Compare indefinite article.)