indefinite

adjective

in·​def·​i·​nite (ˌ)in-ˈde-fə-nət 

-ˈdef-nət

: not definite: such as

a

: not precise : vague

b

: having no exact limits

c

: typically designating an unidentified, generic, or unfamiliar person or thing

the indefinite articles a and an

indefinite pronouns

indefinite noun

indefinitely adverb

indefiniteness noun

Synonyms

• infinite
• endless

Examples of indefinite in a Sentence

We're stuck here for an indefinite period of time.

Their plans have been put on indefinite hold.

She is indefinite about her plans.

Recent Examples on the Web

Now, Clase’s indefinite leave under gambling suspicions—which could result in a potential lifetime ban from MLB if found guilty—has become another hurdle for an idea that has few clear successes. —Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 6 Aug. 2025

Many are alarmed by the prospect of yielding to federal pressure, but also recognize that an indefinite funding freeze poses serious risks. —Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2025

The new bill extends presidential terms to six years and allows for indefinite presidential re-election. —Rachel Wolf, FOXNews.com, 1 Aug. 2025

Professor Snyder, who is currently on indefinite leave from his faculty position at Yale University, is an American historian specializing on 20th century atrocities, mainly those committed by the Nazis and the Stalinists. —Grrlscientist, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin indefinitus, from in- + definitus definite

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing indefinite

• indefinite article
• indefinite integral
• indefinite pronoun

Rhymes for indefinite

• definite

Kids Definition

indefinite

adjective

in·​def·​i·​nite (ˈ)in-ˈdef-(ə-)nət 

1

: not clear or fixed in meaning or details : vague

an indefinite answer

2

: not certain or limited (as in amount or length)

an indefinite period

3

: typically designating a person or thing that is unidentified or cannot be immediately identified

the indefinite articles "a" and "an"

indefinite noun

indefinitely adverb

indefiniteness noun