1
as in authoritative
being the most accurate and apparently thorough
the definitive work on the attack on Pearl Harbor
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in conclusive
serving to put an end to all debate or questioning
a definitive answer that put an immediate end to the discussion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in explicit
so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning
the insurance company's definitive statement on the types of surgical operations that are covered
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in classic
constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated
Dashiell Hammett's Sam Spade is often cited as the definitive hard-boiled private detective
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of definitive
The researchers found that states with more of these types of strict regulations — ranging from environmental standards to consumer safety protections — tend to see fewer new businesses forming, though the report stopped short of establishing a definitive causal relationship.
—
Ethan Varian, Mercury News, 23 Jan. 2026
Still, the researchers caution that even their current analysis is an observational study from which definitive cause-and-effect conclusions cannot be drawn.
—New Atlas, 22 Jan. 2026
These agreements must be definitive.
—Doug Roberson, AJC.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Based on our several conversations, there are enough variables to make a definitive expectation of what would happen to the parking deal if that were to happen.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for definitive
Ethan Varian, Mercury News, 23 Jan. 2026
Still, the researchers caution that even their current analysis is an observational study from which definitive cause-and-effect conclusions cannot be drawn.
—New Atlas, 22 Jan. 2026
These agreements must be definitive.
—Doug Roberson, AJC.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Based on our several conversations, there are enough variables to make a definitive expectation of what would happen to the parking deal if that were to happen.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for definitive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definitive
Adjective
-
There’s a casual, authoritative swing to their performance that belies the stylistic range on the record; the songs touch upon different traditions, yet all sound of a piece.—
Stephen Thomas Erlewine,
Pitchfork,
26 Jan. 2026
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Washington delivers the dialogue with a thrilling range from purrs to roars, all imbued with an authoritative swagger.—
Brady Brickner-Wood,
New Yorker,
21 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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No conclusive plan has been formed to either engage in talks with another professional sports team or repurpose the current site of Arrowhead Stadium – though Lucas and LeVota, respectively, said the city and county could explore both in the next five years.—
Ilana Arougheti,
Kansas City Star,
23 Dec. 2025
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While there is no conclusive evidence indicating a best time to drink aloe vera gel for digestive health, consuming it at specific times may support different health goals.—
Anna Giorgi,
Verywell Health,
23 Dec. 2025
Adjective
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The official investigators of the deaths during the infamous riot were under intense and explicit pressure to conform their testimony to an official, state-exonerating narrative.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
27 Jan. 2026
-
The betrayal was exacerbated by back-and-forth arguing online and the posting of explicit material, only worsened when the two groups met up in Oakland the night of the shooting.—
Nate Gartrell,
Mercury News,
27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
-
Utica greens is a classic Italian American dish that goes by that name everywhere except Utica itself.—
Shilpa Uskokovic,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
27 Jan. 2026
-
Straight to It The ever-classic straight cut is the jean of the moment, thanks to several high-fashion turns around the spring/summer runways.—
Rosie Jarman,
Vogue,
27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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Libkos via Getty Images Russia intended this winter to be decisive, with its troop surge breaking its stalemate with Ukraine.—
Vikram Mittal,
Forbes.com,
22 Jan. 2026
-
But the coach also pointed out that A&M’s decisive run early in the second half Saturday came against the Longhorns' starters.—
Thomas Jones,
Austin American Statesman,
21 Jan. 2026
Adjective
-
Braka has a definite over the top, theatrical quality to him, something Giamatti was all too happy to play.—
Joe Otterson,
Variety,
16 Jan. 2026
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Playing at home and with their tails up, there’s a definite sense of name-on-cup.—
Phil Hay,
New York Times,
15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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The result, featuring a copious voice-over by Talankin, is an exemplary work of cinematic modernism, a reflexive film that turns its genesis into its subject and its moral essence.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
23 Jan. 2026
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An exemplary student in multiple AP classes, Johnson will have plenty of academic options.—
Paul Johnson,
Chicago Tribune,
23 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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Anatomy of a Merger — Jim Freund A clear, deal-lawyer’s view of how acquisitions unfold, from negotiation through closing and early integration.—
Jennifer J. Fondrevay,
Forbes.com,
29 Jan. 2026
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Hood said interstates and main highways are pretty clear, but many rural county roads are probably still covered in ice.—
Bill Bowden,
Arkansas Online,
29 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Definitive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definitive. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.
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