English Lexicon

Definition

/ˌdɛf.ɪˈnɪʃ.ən/
nounCEFR B1 (Intermediate)Top #950 frequency
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2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A statement that explains the meaning of a word or phrase.

    "The definition of 'happiness' varies from person to person."
  2. 2

    The act of defining or making something definite.

    "The definition of the term was crucial for the understanding of the concept."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'definitio', stemming from 'definire' meaning 'to bound' or 'to limit' (from 'de-' meaning 'down, completely' + 'finis' meaning 'boundary, limit'). It entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century, initially relating to logic and the setting of boundaries before evolving to mean the exact meaning of a word.

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