The meaning of DEFINE is to determine or identify the essential qualities or meaning of. How to use define in a sentence.

DEFINITION definition: the act of defining, or of making something definite, distinct, or clear. See examples of definition used in a sentence.

DEFINE meaning: 1. to say what the meaning of something, especially a word, is: 2. to explain and describe the…. Learn more.

2. a. To make clear the outline or form of; delineate: gentle hills that were defined against the sky. b. To specify distinctly: define the weapons to be used in limited warfare. 3. To give form or meaning to: …

Dec 24, 2024 · The word "define" means to explain or clarify the meaning of something or to establish boundaries and parameters. It is a versatile word used in many contexts, from everyday …

The OED is the definitive record of the English language, featuring 600,000 words, 3 million quotations, and over 1,000 years of English.

If you define something, you show, describe, or state clearly what it is and what its limits are, or what it is like. We were unable to define what exactly was wrong with him. [VERB wh] He was asked to define …

Mar 26, 2026 · Clear and simple definitions in American English from Britannica's language experts. More usage examples than any other dictionary.

However, sometimes scientific and philosophical terms are difficult to define without obscurity. A definition should not be negative where it can be positive. We should not define "wisdom" as the …

So when you're thinking about the word define, remember that you're looking to create a boundary of meaning around it, whether you're specifying the meaning of a word or a larger concept. To define a …