define synonyms

define

v.

  1. To set limits

    delimit, demarcate, fix, settle, bound, confine, limit, outline, circumscribe, mark, set, determine, distinguish, establish, compass, encompass, delineate, mark the limits of, determine the boundaries of, fix the limits of, curb, edge, border, enclose, set bounds to, fence in, rim, encircle, hedge in, wall in, envelop, girdle, gird, belt, flank, stake out; see also surround 1, 2.

    Antonyms confuse*, distort*, mix*. *

  2. To provide a name or description

    describe, explain, determine, specify, characterize, entitle, ascertain, name, label, designate, individualize, differentiate, formalize, elucidate, interpret, clarify, illustrate, give the meaning of, gloss, paraphrase, annotate, represent, render precise, individuate, find out, spell out, literalize, construe, denominate, denote, expound, translate, exemplify, assign, prescribe, style, dub; see also describe, explain, name 1, 2.

    Antonyms misunderstand*, misconstrue*, obscure.

Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.