| 释义 |
de·fine
\də̇ˈfīn, dēˈ-\ verb
(-ed/-ing/-s)
Etymology: Middle English definen, diffinen, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French definer, diffiner to determine, bring to an end, from Latin definire to determine, bring to an end, explain, from de- + finire to limit, finish, end, from finis boundary, end — more at final
transitive verb
1. obsolete : to bring to an end : conclude; often : settle
< defined the controversy >
: decide, determine
2. : to fix, decide, or prescribe, clearly and with authority
< define the power of a court by statutory enactment >
3. : to mark the limits of : determine with precision or exhibit clearly the boundaries of
< define the extent of a kingdom >
4. : to make distinct in outline or features : bring into relief
< a tree defined against the sky >
< a well-defined impression of an event >
< the defining power of a lens >
5.
a. : to discover and set forth the meaning of (as a word or term); specifically : to formulate a definition of
b. : to determine the essential qualities of (as a concept or thing)
c. : to determine the precise signification of
d. : describe, expound, interpret, explain
6.
a. mathematics : to specify the construction or interpretation of (a concept)
< define a conic section by a Cartesian equation >
b. : to set apart in a class by identifying marks : characterize, distinguish
< good manners define the gentleman >
c. : to establish in the mind so as to orient one's social reactions toward : identify
< define a situation as hostile >
< define a person as one of the four hundred >
intransitive verb
1. obsolete
a. : to act as a judge in deciding or determining
b. : to deliver a precise opinion
2. : to formulate one or more precise statements of meaning : make a definition
Synonyms: see prescribe |