One entry found for define.

Main Entry: de·fine
Pronunciation: di-fn
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): de·fined; de·fin·ing
Etymology: Middle English definen "to define, mark the limits of," Latin definire (same meaning), from Latin de- "from, away" and finire "to limit," from finis "end, limit" --related to FINAL, FINISH, INFINITY
1 a : to determine the essential qualities of <define the idea of loyalty> <define a circle> b : to set forth the meaning of <define a word> c : to specify (as a programming task) for a computer to use <define a procedure>
2 a : to fix or mark the limits of <the boundary was clearly defined> b : to make distinct, clear, or detailed especially in outline <the tree was well defined against the sky> <your argument is not well defined>
- de·fin·able /-f-n-bl/ adjective
- de·fin·er noun

Pronunciation Symbols