American English

How to pronounce define

verbB1Very common word
dihFAIN

/dɪˈfaɪn/

2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.

to say exactly what a word, expression, or idea means

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

verb

to say exactly what a word, expression, or idea means

Can you define this term?

The guide defines what “remote work” means.

Common phrases & grammar

define a term · define a word · clearly define

define + a word/term

define what + something + means

verb

to make the shape, limits, or main qualities of something clear

The fence defines the property line.

Her paintings define the gallery’s style.

Common phrases & grammar

define the boundaries · define the shape · define a style

define + the limits/boundaries of + something

something + defines + something

Useful expressions

define yourself

to show or decide what kind of person you are

She defines herself as an artist.

Related words & forms

Before -ing, drop the final e: defining, not defineing.