ˈgɪvən
—used to refer to a particular time, place, etc., that has been, will be, or might be specified
You'll have to finish the exam within a given (amount of) time.
They agreed to meet again at a given location.
Climate has a great effect on the types of plants found in any given area.
You never know what might happen on any given night.
plural givens
: something that is regarded or accepted as true or real : a basic fact or assumption
In our system it is a given that all are equal before the law.
I think we can take (it) as a given that they will support us.
—used to indicate something that is being assumed or considered
Given the bad conditions under which the work was done, she has done it very well. = Given the fact that the work was done under bad conditions, she has done it very well.
Given a value of 5 for x, what is 2x?
—often used in the phrase given thatEven given that the house is not in perfect condition, it's still a great buy!
Cite this Entry
“Given.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/given. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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