The modern sense of stating exact meaning emerged during the Renaissance period, particularly in scientific and academic writing. The word “define” is one of the most commonly used words in the English language, particularly in academic, professional, and technical contexts. “Define” carries multiple layers of meaning, all of which contribute to its wide usage in language. Whether you are outlining boundaries or clarifying a concept, this word is integral to providing clarity in communication.
- To establish or determine the boundaries or limits of something, such as a space, concept, or object.
- It is commonly used to give a precise meaning to a term or concept, establish boundaries, or specify characteristics.
- In technical contexts, it often appears as “defined” in passive constructions, particularly in mathematical, scientific, or legal documents where precise meanings are crucial.
- “Define” means to explain or describe the meaning of something clearly.
- Moore chose this moment for a shocking crime in an era nearly defined by them — on Sept. 22, 1975, she tried to assassinate Ford in front of the fashionable St. Francis Hotel.
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- In technical contexts, it often appears as “defined” in passive constructions, particularly in mathematical, scientific, or legal documents where precise meanings are crucial.
- To establish or determine the boundaries or limits of something, such as a space, concept, or object.
- Moore chose this moment for a shocking crime in an era nearly defined by them — on Sept. 22, 1975, she tried to assassinate Ford in front of the fashionable St. Francis Hotel.
It can be used to clarify or explain the meaning of a word, concept, or object. Each example will demonstrate the term’s versatility in everyday language, professional settings, and abstract concepts. To establish or determine the boundaries or limits of something, such as a space, concept, or object. Just as it’s important to know synonyms, understanding the antonyms of “define” can help in expressing the opposite meaning. The most common uses involve explanation and the setting of boundaries.
Kids Definition
Yes, it’s often used to specify the scope or boundaries of legal terms and agreements. To express the meaning of something clearly is often used in academic, legal, and casual speech. “Define” means define share to explain or describe the meaning of something clearly. Moore chose this moment for a shocking crime in an era nearly defined by them — on Sept. 22, 1975, she tried to assassinate Ford in front of the fashionable St. Francis Hotel.
More from Merriam-Webster on definition
Discovering the full range of definitions and contexts for “define” can enrich your language skills and understanding. Define originated from the Latin “definire,” combining “de-” (completely) and “finire” (to bound or limit), first appearing in Middle English around the 14th century. The Latin term initially meant “to bound, limit, or terminate” and was adopted into Old French as “definer” before entering English. In medieval scholarly texts, it was primarily used in logical and philosophical contexts to establish precise meanings.
Derived terms
Define functions primarily as a verb, taking both transitive and intransitive forms in sentences. When used transitively, it requires a direct object to state meaning or set boundaries, while its intransitive use appears in contexts where something becomes clear or distinct. In technical contexts, it often appears as “defined” in passive constructions, particularly in mathematical, scientific, or legal documents where precise meanings are crucial. The word “define” has multiple meanings centered around providing clarity and understanding. It is commonly used to give a precise meaning to a term or concept, establish boundaries, or specify characteristics. It can also imply making something distinct or clear in appearance or perception.
