define Meaning & Definition
What Does Define Mean?
Define is a verb that means To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly. It is also used to mean To settle, decide. As a noun, it means A kind of macro in source code that replaces one text string with another wherever it occurs.
Define at a Glance
| Part of speech | verb, noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | //dɪˈfaɪn// |
| Syllables | 1 |
| Synonyms | delineate, specify and delimitate |
| Plural | defines |
| Verb forms | defines, defining, defined |
Define Definition (Verb)
- To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly.
the defining power of an optical instrument
- To settle, decide .
- To express the essential nature of something.
I define myself as a techno-anarchist.
- To state the meaning of a word, phrase, sign, or symbol.
The textbook defined speed as velocity divided by time.
- 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.
Person 1: Is she good at math?Person 2: Define "good." If you mean if she is faster than the average middle schooler at multiplication, then yes. If you mean if she is able to do multivariable calculus, then no.
- To demark sharply the outlines or limits of an area or concept.
to define the legal boundaries of a property
- To establish the referent of a term or notation.
Define as a Noun
- A kind of macro in source code that replaces one text string with another wherever it occurs.
Verb
- To settle, decide (an argument etc.)
Synonyms of Define
Define synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Define
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Define in a Sentence
the defining power of an optical instrument
I define myself as a techno-anarchist.
Your past mistakes do not define who you are.
The textbook defined speed as velocity divided by time.
Person 1: Is she good at math?Person 2: Define "good." If you mean if she is faster than the average middle schooler at multiplication, then yes. If you mean if she is able to do multivariable calculus, then no.
to define the legal boundaries of a property
Person 1: Is she good at math?
Word Forms & Grammar
define (third-person singular simple present defines, present participle defining, simple past and past participle defined)
define (plural defines)
Words That Rhyme With Define
Origin of Define
From Middle English definen, from Old French definer, variant of definir, from Latin dēfīniō (“limit, settle, define”), from dē + fīniō (“set a limit, bound, end”).
Define Pronunciation
You say define as //dɪˈfaɪn//. It has 1 syllable.
Questions People Ask About Define
Is define a verb or a noun?
Define is mainly used as a verb, but it can also be used as a noun.
What is another word for define?
Close synonyms of define are delineate, specify and delimitate. See the full list of define synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of define?
The plural of define is defines.
What is the past tense of define?
The past tense of define is defined. The present participle is defining.