defining
Something defining is essential to what something is. A defining moment in your life helps makes you what you are.
In the dictionary, definitions tell you what words mean, and the similar word defining has to do with what things are too. The defining characteristic of a chair is that you sit on it. The defining feature of food is you can eat it. People have defining features too: if you went to a summer camp and had an amazing time, it could be a defining time in your life. Defining things helps shape and mold us.
Definitions of defining
-
any process serving to define the shape of something
-
synonyms:
shaping
-
type of:
-
physical process, process
a sustained phenomenon or one marked by gradual changes through a series of states
-
physical process, process
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘defining'.
Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors.
Send us feedback
Word Family
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Look up defining for the last time
Close your vocabulary gaps with personalized learning that focuses on teaching the words you need to know.
