define
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for define, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To state clearly what a word, phrase, or symbol means.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use define
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French definir, from Latin dēfīniō, "to set a limit or boundary" — built from dē- + fīniō ("to bound, finish").
Full origin of define →Frequently asked questions
What does “define” mean?
The word “define” means to state clearly what a word, phrase, or symbol means. In plain terms, to explain exactly what something means or sets its limits.
How do you pronounce “define”?
“Define” is pronounced dih-FYN (/dɪˈfaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “define” in a sentence?
Here is “define” used in a sentence: “The dictionary defines "empathy" as understanding another person's feelings.”
What part of speech is “define”?
“Define” is a verb.
Where does the word “define” come from?
The word “define” comes from Latin. From Old French definir, from Latin dēfīniō, "to set a limit or boundary" — built from dē- + fīniō ("to bound, finish").
Is “define” a common word?
“Define” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “define” have?
“Define” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to state clearly what a word, phrase, or symbol means.
What is the difference between 'define' and 'describe'?
To 'define' something is to state clearly and precisely what it means or what its limits are, as in defining a word. To 'describe' something is to give an account of its features, qualities, or appearance, which is usually broader and less exact than a definition.
What is the difference between 'define' and 'explain'?
'Define' focuses on stating the exact meaning or essential nature of a term in a compact form. 'Explain' goes further by making something understandable, often adding reasons, examples, or step-by-step detail.
What preposition is used with 'define'?
'Define' is most often followed by 'as' when giving a meaning, as in 'the law defines a minor as anyone under eighteen.' It can also stand alone as a transitive verb, as in 'please define the term.'
When should you use 'define' instead of 'determine'?
Use 'define' when you are stating what something means or setting its limits, such as defining a boundary or a role. Use 'determine' when you are finding out or deciding a fact or outcome, such as determining the cause of a problem.