01 v. t. To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
imp. & p. p.
Defined; p. pr. & vb. n.
Defining
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1.
To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
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2.
To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or country.
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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.
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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).