define

defineverb

To define something is to mark clearly what it is, what it means, or where its edges are.

1. give the meaningsay exactly what a word or an idea means

   transitive [T] verb + object [V + obj] verb + object + as + noun or adjective [V + obj + as]

   • How would you define happiness? V + obj
   • The rules define a child as anyone under sixteen. V + obj + as
   • This word is hard to define.

   Collocations

   verb + noun define a word, define a term

   verb + adverb define something clearly, define something broadly, define something narrowly

   phrase define something as something

   Compare explain (give information so that someone understands, not an exact meaning)

2. state clearlysay or decide clearly what something is, what it includes, or where its limits are

   transitive [T] verb + object [V + obj] verb + wh-clause [V + wh]

   • First, we need to define the problem. V + obj
   • My role in the team isn't clearly defined. V + obj
   • The contract defines what each side must do. V + wh

   Collocations

   verb + noun define a problem, define a role, define the limits, define your goals

   adverb + verb clearly define, well defined

3. show the characterbe the most important quality that makes someone or something what they are

   transitive [T] verb + object [V + obj]

   • Don't let one mistake define you. V + obj
   • Kindness defined her whole life. V + obj
   • What defines a good teacher? V + obj

   Collocations

   phrase define who you are, define a generation

4. show the edgeshow the shape or edge of something clearly

   transitive [T] verb + object [V + obj] usually passive [usually passive]

   • The mountains were sharply defined against the sky. usually passive
   • Use a darker color to define the edges. V + obj

   Collocations

   adverb + verb sharply defined, clearly defined