English Reference

Word

defined

Phoneticsde·fined, stress on the second syllable

US/dɪˈfaɪnd/

UK/dɪfˈaɪnd/

Definitions

01clear and distinct

B1 · Intermediate

adj. having clear edges or a shape that is easy to see.

adj. having distinct outlines or a clearly marked form.

“The mountain had a sharply defined peak against the blue sky.”

“The shadows became more defined as the sun rose higher, casting sharp geometric patterns across the courtyard floor.”

Antonyms

02muscular

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

adj. having muscles that are very easy to see because there is little body fat.

adj. having clearly visible muscle separation resulting from a low percentage of body fat.

“After months of training at the gym, his arm muscles were very defined.”

“The athlete's defined physique was a testament to a rigorous combination of high-intensity interval training and a strict nutritional regimen.”

Antonyms

03explained or limited

B1 · Intermediate

v. the past tense of 'define'; to have explained the meaning of something or set its limits.

v. past tense and past participle of 'define', referring to the act of stating a meaning or establishing boundaries.

“The teacher defined the new vocabulary words at the start of the lesson.”

“The scope of the project was strictly defined in the initial contract to prevent any misunderstanding regarding the final deliverables.”

Synonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “defined” in context.

Adjective

01. defined area

“Smoking is only permitted within a clearly defined area of the park.”

adj + noun

02. defined group

“The study focused on a defined group of students who were all studying medicine.”

adj + noun

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Common
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference