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

Melania’s defining characteristic is absence — and it’s done nothing to cultivate a sense of mystique for the first lady.

From Salon

Equity Strategy Evercore ISI External link Jan. 30: The divergence between AI infrastructure and enterprise software remains a defining market theme.

From Barron's

The company’s strong guidance is a “defining moment.”

From Barron's

Next comes gridding the search, imposing structure and defining the project’s parameters.

From The Wall Street Journal

Whatever the reason, his voice will keep defining music in India.

From BBC