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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

Define \De*fine"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Defined}; p. pr. & vb.
n. {Defining}.] [OE. definer, usually, to end, to finish, F.
d['e]finir to define, L. definire to limit, define; de-
finire to limit, end, finis boundary, limit, end. See
{Final}, {Finish}.]
1. To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
"To define controversies." --Barrow.
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2. To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark
the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or
country.
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3. To determine with precision; to mark out with
distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as, the
defining power of an optical instrument.
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Rings . . . very distinct and well defined. --Sir I.
Newton.
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4. To determine the precise signification of; to fix the
meaning of; to describe accurately; to explain; to expound
or interpret; as, to define a word, a phrase, or a
scientific term.
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They define virtue to be life ordered according to
nature. --Robynson
(More's
Utopia).
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