adj
Common
defining
Defining (adj) means Central to identifying or distinguishing something; characteristic. Example: “Kindness was the defining feature of her whole career.”
adj
1
Central to identifying or distinguishing something; characteristic.
"Kindness was the defining feature of her whole career."
"That summer proved to be a defining moment for the young team."
"Courage under pressure was the defining trait of her leadership."
How to use defining
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes the single feature or moment that most makes something what it is.
Common pairings
defining moment
defining feature
defining characteristic
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more defining
- Superlative
- most defining
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Kindness was the _____ feature of her whole career.
Related words
Rhymes for defining
See all rhymes for defining →Frequently asked questions
What does “defining” mean?
The word “defining” means central to identifying or distinguishing something; characteristic. In plain terms, describes the single feature or moment that most makes something what it is.
How do you use “defining” in a sentence?
Here is “defining” used in a sentence: “Courage under pressure was the defining trait of her leadership.”
What part of speech is “defining”?
“Defining” is an adjective.
Is “defining” a common word?
“Defining” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'defining' and 'definitive'?
'Defining' describes something central to identifying or distinguishing what something is, as in a 'defining moment.' 'Definitive' means final, conclusive, and authoritative, as in a 'definitive answer.' A defining feature shapes identity; a definitive one settles a matter.
What is the difference between a 'defining' feature and a 'distinguishing' feature?
A defining feature is one that is essential to identifying what something is, while a distinguishing feature is one that sets it apart from others. The two often overlap, but 'defining' stresses identity and 'distinguishing' stresses contrast.
What nouns commonly follow 'defining'?
'Defining' frequently pairs with words like moment, characteristic, feature, trait, and quality. In each case it marks the noun as central to identifying or distinguishing the thing being described.
