The meaning of DEFINE is to determine or identify the essential qualities or meaning of. How to use define in a sentence.

DEFINE definition: to state or set forth the meaning of (a word, phrase, etc.). See examples of define used in a sentence.

DEFINE meaning: 1. to say what the meaning of something, especially a word, is: 2. to explain and describe the…. Learn more.

1 day ago · Clear and simple definitions in American English from Britannica's language experts. More usage examples than any other dictionary.

Nov 1, 2025 · To describe, explain, or make definite and clear; used to request the listener or other person to elaborate or explain more clearly his or her intended meaning of a word or expression. …

Dec 24, 2024 · Explore the definition of the word "define," as well as its versatile usage, synonyms, examples, etymology, and more.

A definition states the meaning of a word using other words. This is sometimes challenging. Common dictionaries contain lexical descriptive definitions, but there are various types of definition – all with …

If you define something, you show, describe, or state clearly what it is and what its limits are, or what it is like. We were unable to define what exactly was wrong with him. [VERB wh] He was asked to define …

to determine or fix the boundaries or extent of: to define property with stakes. to make clear the outline or form of: The roof was boldly defined against the sky.

So when you're thinking about the word define, remember that you're looking to create a boundary of meaning around it, whether you're specifying the meaning of a word or a larger concept. To define a …