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define

verb

Synonyms and Antonyms of define

1 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 of define

delineate, outline, silhouette, sketch, trace
Words Related to define

line

bound, fringe, margin, skirt

edge, hem, rim, trim

frame

circle, compass, encircle, girdle, girth, loop, ring, round, surround

chart, diagram, draw, map (out)
2 to mark the limits of
  • The river defines the town on the south.
Synonyms of define

bound, circumscribe, delimit, demarcate, demark, limit, mark (off), terminate
Words Related to define

control, determine, govern

delineate, describe
3 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 of define

character, characterize, depict, describe, portray, represent
Words Related to define

categorize, classify, pigeonhole, type

color, identify, indicate, name, specify

distinguish, individualize, mark, particularize, stamp
4 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 of define

lay down, prescribe, specify
Words Related to define

decree, dictate, ordain

assign, direct, fix, set, settle

arrange, order

choose, select

bid, charge, command, enjoin, instruct, tell

conduct, control, govern, lead, manage

coerce, compel, constrain, force

obligate, oblige, require

Learn More about define

  1. See words that rhyme with define Dictionary: Definition of define Spanish Central: Translation of define Nglish: Translation of define for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of define for Arabic speakers

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