Defination vs. Definition — Which is Correct Spelling?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on March 18, 2024
"Defination" is a common misspelling. The correct spelling is "Definition," which refers to a statement explaining a word's meaning.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Defination or Definition
How to spell Definition?
Defination
Incorrect Spelling
Definition
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
Think of the word "finite" hidden in "definition."
If you know the word "definitive," it's just a short leap to "definition."
Remember it has the root "define," followed by "-ition."
The "-tion" ending is common in English, like in "relation" or "operation."
Pronunciation guides the spelling: It's "deh-fuh-NI-shuhn," not "deh-fuh-NAY-shuhn."
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How Do You Spell Definition Correctly?
Incorrect: The legal document required a strict defination of terms.
Correct: The legal document required a strict definition of terms.
Incorrect: The book included a defination of scientific terms.
Correct: The book included a definition of scientific terms.
Incorrect: Can you provide a defination for this word?
Correct: Can you provide a definition for this word?
Incorrect: His speech lacked a precise defination of key concepts.
Correct: His speech lacked a precise definition of key concepts.
Incorrect: She asked for a clear defination of the company's policy.
Correct: She asked for a clear definition of the company's policy.
Definition Definitions
A detailed description of the design and workings of something.
The engineer's report included a definition of the machine's mechanisms.
The degree of distinctness in outline of an object or image.
The artist's portrait had such sharp definition that every facial feature stood out vividly.
A definition is a statement of the meaning of a term (a word, phrase, or other set of symbols). Definitions can be classified into two large categories, intensional definitions (which try to give the sense of a term) and extensional definitions (which try to list the objects that a term describes).
The clarity or sharpness of an optical or auditory image.
The new television has excellent definition, making the colors pop.
A statement explaining the meaning of a term.
The dictionary provided a clear definition of the word ambiguous.
A decisive conclusion or boundary.
The case's resolution provided a definition to the prolonged debate.
A statement of the exact meaning of a word, especially in a dictionary
A dictionary definition of the verb
The degree of distinctness in outline of an object, image, or sound
The clarity and definition of pictures can be aided by using computer graphics
A statement of the meaning of a word, phrase, or term, as in a dictionary entry.
A statement or description of the fundamental character or scope of something
"[The panel] calls for a clearer definition of the status of people captured in American military operations" (Economist).
The act or process of stating a precise meaning or significance; formulation of a meaning
The definition of terms is essential to any successful scholarly study.
The state of being clearly outlined
"With the drizzle, the trees in the little clearing had lost definition" (Anthony Hyde).
The level of detail in a recording, production, or digital encoding of an image or sound.
A statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol (dictionary definitions).
Your definition of "elephant" needs to be more precise than "a big animal with large ears".
A clear instance conforming to the dictionary or textbook definition.
A statement expressing the essential nature of something; formulation
The action or process of defining.
The act of defining; determination of the limits.
A product of defining.
The action or power of describing, explaining, or making definite and clear.
Her comic genius is beyond definition.
Clarity of visual presentation, distinctness of outline or detail.
The definition of a telescope.
Improve the definition of an image.
High-defintion videos
Clarity, especially of musical sound in reproduction.
Sharp demarcation of outlines or limits.
A jacket with distinct waist definition.
(bodybuilding) The degree to which individual muscles are distinct on the body.
(programming) A statement which provides a previous declaration with a value or body of a subroutine (in the case of function).
(mathematics) A statement that establishes the referent of a term or notation.
The act of defining; determination of the limits; as, a telescope accurate in definition.
Act of ascertaining and explaining the signification; a description of a thing by its properties; an explanation of the meaning of a word or term; as, the definition of "circle;" the definition of "wit;" an exact definition; a loose definition.
Definition being nothing but making another understand by words what the term defined stands for.
Description; sort.
An exact enunciation of the constituents which make up the logical essence.
Distinctness or clearness, as of an image formed by an optical instrument; precision in detail.
A concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol
Clarity of outline;
Exercise had give his muscles superior definition
Definition Meaning in a Sentence
The dictionary provides a definition for every word.
The scientific definition of a mineral differs from everyday use.
A definition explains the meaning of a word or phrase.
The legal definition of theft includes the intent to permanently deprive.
The definition of "healthy" has evolved over time.
He struggled to find the right definition for his feelings.
The definition of "culture" varies widely depending on the context.
Understanding the definition of a term is crucial for clear communication.
A clear definition helps avoid misunderstandings.
The philosophical definition of "existence" has puzzled thinkers for centuries.
Teachers often ask students to write the definition of new vocabulary words.
In mathematics, the definition of a prime number is very precise.
The definition of "art" is subjective and has led to many debates.
Understanding the definition of "consent" is important in many aspects of society.
The medical community's definition of "wellness" encompasses mental and physical health.
The definition of "democracy" involves the right of people to choose their leaders.
His thesis required the definition of several complex terms.
The definition of "freedom" varies in different legal and cultural contexts.
The dictionary's definition of "love" includes many variations and interpretations.
The definition of "family" has evolved significantly over time.
Environmental laws depend on the definition of "pollution."
She highlighted the definition in her textbook for future reference.
The definition of "sustainability" includes meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
The term "friend" has a broad definition that differs from person to person.
Understanding the definition of "inflation" is important in economics.
Common Curiosities
What is the root word of Definition?
The root word is "define."
Why is it called Definition?
The term "definition" derives from Latin "definire" meaning "to limit, determine," emphasizing the setting of boundaries or clarity about something.
Which vowel is used before Definition?
The vowel "i" is used before "definition" in words like "a definition" or "the definition."
Which preposition is used with Definition?
The preposition "of" is often used with "definition," as in "definition of a term."
Which conjunction is used with Definition?
No specific conjunction is inherently linked to "definition," but any can be used as context demands.
What is the pronunciation of Definition?
It is pronounced as /ˌdɛf.ɪˈnɪʃ.ən/.
Is Definition an abstract noun?
Yes, "definition" is an abstract noun as it represents an idea or concept.
What is the verb form of Definition?
The verb form is "define."
What is the plural form of Definition?
The plural form is "definitions."
Is the word Definition imperative?
No, "definition" is not in the imperative form.
What is the singular form of Definition?
The singular form is "definition."
Is Definition a collective noun?
No, "definition" is not a collective noun.
Is the Definition term a metaphor?
No, "definition" itself isn't a metaphor, though it can be used metaphorically in some contexts.
Which article is used with Definition?
Both "a" and "the" can be used with "definition" depending on the context.
Is Definition a noun or adjective?
"Definition" is a noun.
Is Definition a vowel or consonant?
"Definition" is a noun and consists of both vowels and consonants.
How many syllables are in Definition?
There are four syllables in "definition."
Which determiner is used with Definition?
Determiners like "this," "that," "a," "the," or "my" can be used with "definition."
Is Definition a countable noun?
Yes, "definition" is countable. For example, "There are several definitions for that word."
Is the word Definition a Gerund?
No, "definition" is not a gerund.
Is the word “Definition” a Direct object or an Indirect object?
"Definition" can serve as either depending on the sentence. For example, in "She gave the definition to him," it's a direct object.
What is another term for Definition?
Another term could be "explanation" or "description."
What is the opposite of Definition?
Ambiguity or vagueness.
What is the second form of Definition?
The second form of the verb "define" is "defined."
What is the third form of Definition?
The third form of the verb "define" is also "defined."
Is Definition an adverb?
No, "definition" is not an adverb.
Is Definition a negative or positive word?
"Definition" is neutral; it's neither inherently positive nor negative.
What is the first form of Definition?
The verb form "define" is the base or first form.
How is Definition used in a sentence?
The dictionary provided a concise definition for the term "ephemeral."
How do we divide Definition into syllables?
It is divided as de-fi-ni-tion.
What is a stressed syllable in Definition?
The third syllable, "ni," is stressed.
What part of speech is Definition?
"Definition" is a noun.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
