Synonyms of define

define

verb

di-ˈfīn 

1

as in to trace

to draw or make apparent the outline of

the glass skyscraper's sleek silhouette was strikingly defined by the setting sun to its west

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trace
• outline
• delineate
• sketch
• surround
• circle
• trim
• bound
• round
• silhouette
• line
• margin
• draw
• frame
• fringe
• encircle
• loop
• edge
• rim
• hem
• chart
• ring
• skirt
• map (out)
• compass
• diagram
• girth
• girdle

2

as in to describe

to mark the limits of

the river defines the town on the south

Synonyms & Similar Words

• describe
• limit
• bound
• delimit
• demarcate
• govern
• mark (off)
• circumscribe
• demark
• terminate
• determine
• control
• delineate

3

as in to characterize

to point out the chief quality or qualities of an individual or group

a woman who is defined by her unswerving loyalty to her friends

Synonyms & Similar Words

• characterize
• describe
• portray
• represent
• depict
• character
• identify
• classify
• categorize
• specify
• indicate
• type
• pigeonhole
• distinguish
• mark
• individualize
• stamp
• particularize
• name
• color

4

as in to specify

to give the rules about (something) clearly and exactly

let me define the task so that there is no doubt in your minds about what needs to be done

Synonyms & Similar Words

• specify
• prescribe
• direct
• dictate
• lay down
• order
• tell
• arrange
• assign
• select
• choose
• instruct
• set
• manage
• require
• govern
• constrain
• compel
• control
• conduct
• force
• ordain
• lead
• coerce
• decree
• enjoin
• bid
• fix
• obligate
• settle
• oblige
• command
• adjure
• charge

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of define

The settings are light, with seven-on-seven drills offering none of the hits and pocket management that will help define who Simpson is as a future starter. —Nate Atkins, New York Times, 29 May 2026

In an era shaped by social media, widening inequality, and constant exposure to other people’s relationships, wealth, and success, jealousy has become one of the defining but least honestly discussed emotions of adulthood. —Meehika Barua, Time, 29 May 2026

No launch pad There’s a reason why, before the very first launch of the Falcon Heavy rocket in 2018, SpaceX founder Elon Musk defined success as the vehicle clearing the launch pad. —Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 29 May 2026

The latest shakeup follows multiple controversial moves by Weiss, who’s set on remaking the institution long defined by tradition. —Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026