definite

The definition of definite is something that has limits, is clear in meaning, absolutely true and positive.

(adjective)

  1. An example of definite is the measurements of a piece of land as expressed in the legal bill of sale.
  2. An example of definite is when you have a specific idea about what you want your house to look like.
  3. An example of definite is when you have a plan that you are absolutely going to carry out.
  4. An example of definite is when someone clearly has an advantage on another person.

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See definite in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. having exact limits
  2. precise and clear in meaning; explicit
  3. certain; positive: it's definite that he'll go
  4. Bot. having a constant number of stamens, etc., less than 20 but always a multiple of the number of petals
  5. Gram. limiting or specifying; referring to a specific or previously identified person, thing, etc.: “the” is the definite article

Origin: L definitus, pp. of definire: see define

Related Forms:

See definite in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Having distinct limits: definite restrictions on the sale of alcohol.
  2. Indisputable; certain: a definite victory.
  3. Clearly defined; explicitly precise: a definite statement of the terms of the will. See Synonyms at explicit.
  4. Grammar Limiting or particularizing.
  5. Botany
    a. Of a specified number not exceeding 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.
    b. Cymose; determinate.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English diffinite, defined

Origin: , from Latin dēfīnītus

Origin: , past participle of dēfīnīre, to define; see define

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Related Forms:

  • defˈi·nite·ly adverb
  • defˈi·nite·ness noun
Usage Note: Definite and definitive both apply to what is precisely defined or explicitly set forth. But definitive most often refers specifically to a judgment or description that serves as a standard or reference point for others, as in the definitive decision of the court (which sets forth a final resolution of a judicial matter) or the definitive biography of Nelson (that is, the biography that sets the standard against which all other accounts of Nelson's life must be measured).

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