-
Define
A definition is a statement of the meaning of a term (a word, phrase, or other set of symbols). Definitions can be classified into two large categories, intensional definitions (which try to give the essence of a term) and extensional definitions (which proceed by listing the objects that a term describes). Another important category of definitions is the class of ostensive definitions, which convey the meaning of a term by pointing out examples. A term may have many different senses and multiple meanings, and thus require multiple definitions.In mathematics, a definition is used to give a precise meaning to a new term, instead of describing a pre-existing term. Definitions and axioms are the basis on which all of modern mathematics is constructed.
-
Define (verb)
To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly.
“the defining power of an optical instrument”
-
Define (verb)
To settle, decide an argument etc. 16th-17th c.
-
Define (verb)
To express the essential nature of something.
“I define myself as a techno-anarchist.”
-
Define (verb)
To state the meaning of a word, phrase, sign, or symbol.
“The textbook defined speed as velocity divided by time.”
-
Define (verb)
To describe, explain, or make definite and clear.
-
Define (verb)
To demark sharply the outlines or limits of an area or concept.
“to define the legal boundaries of a property”
-
Define (verb)
To establish the referent of a term or notation.
-
Define (noun)
A kind of macro in source code that replaces one text string with another wherever it occurs.
-
Describe (verb)
To represent in words.
“The feeling is difficult to describe, but not unpleasant.”
“The geographer describes countries and cities.”
-
Describe (verb)
To represent by drawing; to draw a plan of; to delineate; to trace or mark out.
“to describe a circle by the compasses;”
“a torch waved about the head in such a way as to describe a circle”
-
Describe (verb)
To give rise to a geometrical structure.
“The function describes a very complex surface.”
-
Describe (verb)
To introduce a new taxon to science by explaining its characteristics and particularly how it differs from other taxa.
“The fungus was first described by a botanist.”
-
Describe (verb)
To distribute into parts, groups, or classes; to mark off; to class.
-
Define (verb)
state or describe exactly the nature, scope, or meaning of
“the contract will seek to define the client’s obligations”
-
Define (verb)
give the meaning of (a word or phrase), especially in a dictionary
“the dictionary defines it as ‘a type of pasture’”
-
Define (verb)
make up or establish the character or essence of
“for some, the football club defines their identity”
-
Define (verb)
mark out the boundary or limits of
“the river defines the park’s boundary”
-
Define (verb)
make clear the outline of; delineate
“she defined her eyes by applying eyeshadow to her eyelids”