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defining |
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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