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define

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The definition of define is to describe the meaning or character of something.

(verb)

An example of define is when you tell someone what a word means.
An example of define is when you set clear rules for living in your house.

See define in Webster's New World College Dictionary

1. to determine or set down the boundaries of
2. to trace the precise outlines of; delineate
to determine or state the extent and nature of; describe exactly: define your duties
1. to give the distinguishing characteristics of
2. to constitute the distinction of; differentiate: reason defines man
to state the meaning or meanings of (as a word)

Origin: ME diffinen < OFr definer & ML diffinire, both < L definire, to limit, define < de-, from + finire, to set a limit to, bound: see finish

intransitive verb

to prepare definitions, as of words

Related Forms:

definable adjective
definer noun

See define in American Heritage Dictionary 4

verb de·fined, de·fin·ing, de·fines

verb, transitive

a. To state the precise meaning of (a word or sense of a word, for example).
b. To describe the nature or basic qualities of; explain: define the properties of a new drug; a study that defines people according to their median incomes.
a. To delineate the outline or form of: gentle hills that were defined against the sky.
b. To specify distinctly: define the weapons to be used in limited warfare.
To give form or meaning to: “For him, a life is defined by action” (Jay Parini).