də̇ˈfīn, dēˈ- verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English definen, diffinen, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French definer, diffiner to determine, bring to an end, from Latin definire to determine, bring to an end, explain, from de- + finire to limit, finish, end, from finis boundary, end — more at final
transitive verb
1. obsolete : to bring to an end : conclude ; often : settle
defined the controversy
: decide , determine
2. : to fix, decide, or prescribe, clearly and with authority
define the power of a court by statutory enactment
3. : to mark the limits of : determine with precision or exhibit clearly the boundaries of
define the extent of a kingdom
4. : to make distinct in outline or features : bring into relief
a tree defined against the sky
a well- defined impression of an event
the defining power of a lens
5.
a. : to discover and set forth the meaning of (as a word or term) ; specifically : to formulate a definition of
b. : to determine the essential qualities of (as a concept or thing)
c. : to determine the precise signification of
d. : describe , expound , interpret , explain
6.
a. mathematics : to specify the construction or interpretation of (a concept)
define a conic section by a Cartesian equation
b. : to set apart in a class by identifying marks : characterize , distinguish
good manners define the gentleman
c. : to establish in the mind so as to orient one's social reactions toward : identify
define a situation as hostile
define a person as one of the four hundred
intransitive verb
1. obsolete
a. : to act as a judge in deciding or determining
b. : to deliver a precise opinion
2. : to formulate one or more precise statements of meaning : make a definition
Synonyms: see prescribe