define
dih-FYN
Define (verb) means to state clearly what a word, phrase, or symbol means. Example: “The dictionary defines "empathy" as understanding another person's feelings.”
verb
1
To state clearly what a word, phrase, or symbol means.
"The dictionary defines "empathy" as understanding another person's feelings."
"Can you define what you mean by "success"?"
"The teacher asked us to define the word "generous" in our own words."
2
To describe the essential nature or limits of something clearly.
"Her early novels defined an entire literary movement."
"The contract clearly defines each party's responsibilities."
"The qualities of courage and loyalty define a true friend."
How to use define
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo explain exactly what something means or sets its limits.
Common pairings
define a term
define your goals
clearly defined
define the scope
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Word forms
- Plural
- defines
- Third person singular
- defines
- Past tense
- defined
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The dictionary _____ "empathy" as understanding another person's feelings.
Etymology
From Old French definir, from Latin dēfīniō, "to set a limit or boundary" — built from dē- + fīniō ("to bound, finish").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for define
See all rhymes for 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.
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