defines

VERB

give description

Synonyms

STRONGEST

characterize construe decide delineate describe designate detail determine exemplify explain illustrate interpret prescribe represent specify spell out

STRONG

ascertain assign denominate denote dub elucidate entitle etch expound formalize label name tag translate

WEAK

call a spade a spade lay it out nail it down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

confuse hesitate hide misrepresent obscure

WEAK

distort tangle twist

VERB

delimit, outline

Synonyms

STRONGEST

delineate distinguish establish limit mark set

STRONG

belt border bound circumscribe compass confine curb demarcate edge encircle enclose encompass envelop fix flank gird girdle rim settle surround verge

WEAK

fence in mark out set bounds to stake out wall in

Antonyms

STRONG

aid assist center free help let go lose open release unloose unsettle

WEAK

confuse distort tangle twist

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One widely used approach defines microplastics as any fragment of plastic that is less than 5mm - about the width of a wedding band.

From BBC • Jun. 15, 2026

“That’s what defines community banking—a focus on accountability, local engagement, and meeting the needs of customers.”

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

California state law defines a “law enforcement gang” as a group of officers “who engage in a pattern of on-duty behavior that intentionally violates the law or fundamental principles of professional policing.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

Transportation construction spending, as the government defines it, refers to structures used for transportation, such as airport hangars, bus terminals, railroad tracks and marinas.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

Americans are so nutty about physical appearance and what defines beauty.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana