Defining

Defining
Define De*fine", v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Defined}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Defining}.] [OE. definer, usually, to end, to finish, F. d['e]finir to define, L. definire to limit, define; de- + finire to limit, end, finis boundary, limit, end. See {Final}, {Finish}.] 1. To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end. ``To define controversies.'' --Barrow. [1913 Webster]

2. To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or country. [1913 Webster]

3. To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as, the defining power of an optical instrument. [1913 Webster]

Rings . . . very distinct and well defined. --Sir I. Newton. [1913 Webster]

4. To determine the precise signification of; to fix the meaning of; to describe accurately; to explain; to expound or interpret; as, to define a word, a phrase, or a scientific term. [1913 Webster]

They define virtue to be life ordered according to nature. --Robynson (More's Utopia). [1913 Webster]


The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.

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