definition

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   clarity of outline

   Exercise gives your muscles superior definition.

2. 2
   noun

   A statement of the meaning of a word, word group, sign, or symbol; especially, a dictionary definition.

   Your definition of "elephant" needs to be more precise than "a big animal with large ears".

3. 3
   noun

   A clear instance conforming to the dictionary or textbook definition.

   Baroque is a good game, but only for a very narrow subset of the gaming audience. It is the very definition of a niche title.

4. 4
   noun

   The action or power of describing, explaining, or making definite and clear.

   Her comic genius is beyond definition.

5. 5
   noun

   Clarity of visual presentation, distinctness of outline or detail.

   The definition of a telescope.

6. 6
   noun

   Sharp demarcation of outlines or limits.

   A jacket with distinct waist definition.

7. 7
   noun

   The part of a cryptic clue which defines but does not indicate the solution.

   However, some clues include words that do not form part of the wordplay or the definition.

8. 8
   noun

   a concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol

Etymology

From Middle English diffinicioun, from Middle French definition, from Latin dēfīnītiō, from dēfīniō. Equivalent to define + -ition.