2 definitions found
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]:
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.
2. To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of to mark
the limits of as to define the extent of a kingdom or
country.
3. To determine with precision; to mark out with
distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as the
defining power of an optical instrument.
Rings . . . very distinct and well defined. --Sir I.
Newton.
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.
They define virtue to be life ordered according to
nature. --Robynson
(More's
Utopia).
From WordNet r 1.6 [wn]:
defining
n : any process serving to define the shape of something [syn: {shaping}]
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