def·i·ni·tion (d f  -n sh n)n. 1. a. A statement conveying fundamental character. b. A statement of the meaning of a word, phrase, or term, as in a dictionary entry. 2. The act or process of stating a precise meaning or significance; formulation of a meaning. 3. a. The act of making clear and distinct: a definition of one's intentions. b. The state of being closely outlined or determined: "With the drizzle, the trees in the little clearing had lost definition" (Anthony Hyde). c. A determination of outline, extent, or limits: the definition of a President's authority. 4. a. The clarity of detail in an optically produced image, such as a photograph, effected by a combination of resolution and contrast. b. The degree of clarity with which a televised image or broadcast signal is received. [Middle English diffinicioun, from Old French definition, from Latin d  f nti , dfntin-, from dfntus, past participle of dfnre, to define; see define.]def i·nition·al adj. |
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