defined; defining transitive verb 1 a : to determine or identify the essential qualities or meaning of whatever defines us as human b : to discover and set forth the meaning of (something, such as a word) how the dictionary defines "grotesque" c computing : to create with established rules or parameters define a window define a procedure 2 a

1. to state or set forth the meaning of (a word, etc.). 2. to explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of; describe. 3. to specify: to define responsibilities. 4. to determine or fix the boundaries or extent of. 5. to make clear the outline or form of. v.i. 6. to set forth the meaning of a word, phrase, etc.

to fix or lay down clearly and definitely; specify distinctly: to define one's responsibilities. to determine or fix the boundaries or extent of: to define property with stakes. to make clear the outline or form of: The roof was boldly defined against the sky. verb (used without object), de·fined, de·fin·ing.