Definition — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˌde-fə-ˈni-shən/ def·i·ni·tion

Meaning & Definition of Definition

Definition (noun)

  1. a statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol
  2. a statement expressing the essential nature of something
  3. a product of defining

Definition (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a vivid representation in words of someone or something

    "he gave us his definition of the perfect romantic evening on the town"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Definition

The most common words with a similar meaning to Definition:

Word Forms of Definition

Derived words: definitional (adjective)

Origin & Etymology of Definition

Middle English diffinicioun, borrowed from Anglo-French diffiniciun, definiciun, borrowed from Latin dēfīnītiōn-, dēfīnītiō "fixing of a boundary, precise description," from dēfīnīre "to mark the limits of, determine, define" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First known use: 14th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Definition

Words & Phrases Containing Definition

Frequently Asked Questions about Definition

What does "Definition" mean?

"Definition" means a statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol. As a noun, it is defined as: a statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol.

What is another word for "Definition"?

Other words for "Definition" include delineation, depiction, description, picture, portrait, portraiture, portrayal and rendering. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Definition" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Definition"?

There are 26 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Definition". Common alternatives include delineation, depiction, description, picture, portrait, portraiture, portrayal, rendering, sketch and vignette.

How do you use "Definition" in a sentence?

Examples of "Definition" in a sentence: "he gave us his definition of the perfect romantic evening on the town".

Is "Definition" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Definition" is a noun.

Is "Definition" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B1-level word, "Definition" is typical of Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET), IELTS band 4.0–5.0, TOEFL iBT 42–71, PTE Academic 43–58, TOEIC Listening & Reading 550+. It is on the Academic Word List, so it appears often in IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and university texts.

How do you pronounce "Definition"?

"Definition" is pronounced /ˌde-fə-ˈni-shən/ and divided into syllables as def·i·ni·tion.

What is the origin of the word "Definition"?

"Definition" comes from Middle English diffinicioun, borrowed from Anglo-French diffiniciun, definiciun, borrowed from Latin dēfīnītiōn-, dēfīnītiō "fixing of a boundary, precise description," from dēfīnīre "to mark the limits of, determine, define" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action. First known use: 14th century.