definition
UK[ˌdef.ɪˈnɪʃ.ən]US[ˌdef.əˈnɪʃ.ən]
n
A statement of the exact meaning of a word or phrase, or the nature or scope of something.
n
The degree of sharpness or clarity in an image or sound.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
fin
ition
de
completely
fin
end, limit
ition
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'definition' originates from the Latin verb definire, meaning "to limit, determine, or explain." This verb itself is composed of the intensive prefix de- and the root finire, "to bound or limit," which comes from finis, "an end or boundary." The core logic is that to define something is to set clear boundaries around its meaning, thereby distinguishing it from other things. The suffix -tion was added to form the noun definitionem, denoting the action or result of setting such limits. This etymological journey from the concrete concept of a physical boundary to the abstract act of precise explanation illustrates how language formalizes thought.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + fin (end, limit) + ition (noun suffix)
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "completely, thoroughly, down, away."
- fin: A Latin root from finis, meaning "end, limit, boundary."
- ition: A Latin-derived noun suffix (-itio, -itionis) indicating an action or result.
Examples
The dictionary provides a clear definition for every entry.
The legal definition of the term was crucial to the case.
The high-definition television offers an incredibly sharp picture.