definite

adjective

def·i·nite | \ ˈde-fə-nit

, ˈdef-nət \

Definition of definite

1a : free of all ambiguity, uncertainty, or obscurity demanded a definite answer Her position on the issue was definite.

b : unquestionable, decided the quarterback was a definite hero today a definite masterpiece saw a definite improvement in her grades

2 grammar : typically designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing the definite article the

3 : having distinct or certain limits set definite standards for pupils to meet … the side striking the new coin is flattened and less definite.— Jed Stevenson

4a of floral organs : being constant in number, usually less than 20, and occurring in multiples of the petal number stamens definite

b : cymose a definite inflorescence

Other Words from definite Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym Spelling: It's Definite NOT Definate More Example Sentences Learn More about definite

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Choose the Right Synonym for definite

explicit, definite, express, specific mean perfectly clear in meaning. explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding. explicit instructions definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision. the law is definite in such cases express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance. her express wishes specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular. two specific criticisms

Spelling: It's Definite NOT Definate

This word can be tricky to spell because its last syllable has that amorphous schwa sound as its vowel.

To remember that the word ends in ite and not ate you can think of a few things:

The word definite doesn't go on forever; it's finite. (Get it? deFINITE.)

The etymology of definite can also be useful in remembering the word's spelling. Definite traces back to the Latin word finire meaning "to limit, end, FINISH." Connect finish to definite and voilà: you can definitely spell definite correctly.

Examples of definite in a Sentence

We'll need a definite answer by Tuesday. The answer is a definite no. I don't know anything definite yet. The teacher sets definite standards for her students. She seems to be pretty definite about leaving. I am definite that we will win.

Recent Examples on the Web Because there’s a definite commercial value to fitting in. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, "Wolfwalkers Is Giving Kids a History Lesson on the Horrors of Colonialism," 18 Feb. 2021 And if those teams face one another, the Bobcats will be the host, a definite advantage. — Joe Magill, cleveland, "How deep of a run can Elyria Catholic make? Division III girls basketball sectional-district preview," 15 Feb. 2021 But a definite wow to the possible plan for settling it, a scheme the Met has hitherto always opposed. — Los Angeles Times, "Commentary: While the Met contemplates selling its treasured art, rich trustees sit idle," 14 Feb. 2021 There's a definite partisan divide in how folks answered the poll's questions. — Morgan Watkins, The Courier-Journal, "Mason-Dixon poll: Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul is in good shape for reelection next year," 12 Feb. 2021 Styling is subjective, but the G80 has definite presence that draws eyeballs, especially in its $400 Porto Red paint, which is the same shade as a can of Dr. Pepper. — Tony Quiroga, Car and Driver, "Tested: 2021 Genesis G80 2.5T AWD Introduces Some Choices," 12 Feb. 2021 To inspire them to prepare for definite occupations and duties with a broad spirit of sacrifice. — Anna Holmes, The Atlantic, "How W. E. B. Du Bois Changed Black Childhood in America," 12 Feb. 2021 The Discovery Plus lineup of nature documentary series includes two shows that have definite similarities in subject matter, but very different points of view. — oregonlive, "Discovery Plus nature documentaries offer visual splendor -- and David Schwimmer joking about his mom’s brisket," 13 Jan. 2021 Sarah says that there are definite benefits to sobriety, and to programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, especially given that AA is free and pretty much everywhere. — Carolyn Kylstra, SELF, "Do I Have a Drinking Problem?," 11 Jan. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'definite.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.