defining
adjective
decisive; critically important.
self-defining
-
a word derived from
defining.
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.
Anyone who has had to hide something as self-defining as their sexual orientation will tell you the pressure is suffocating and their performance has suffered as a result.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 18, 2024
Helping your younger brother get vaccinated and setting out to repair your relations with your parents aren’t self-canceling impulses; they’re self-defining ones.
From New York Times ● Apr. 12, 2022
And so, this is not an argument highlighting the importance of rock-and-roll legend Richard Wayne Penniman’s flamboyant, gender-blurring, self-defining public style.
From Washington Post ● May 10, 2020
It wasn’t a self-defining event in my life.
From Slate ● Jul. 9, 2018
I don’t have a self-defining talent like Bekah or even something I stuck with long enough to fall back on.
From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy
