What does "defining" mean?

1. (essential or characteristic) describing the most important feature that makes something what it is. 2. (explaining or setting limits) the act of explaining what a word means or deciding the limits of something.

How do you use "defining"?

Usually placed before the noun it describes.

defining

adj. · v.

US //dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ// UK //dɪfˈaɪnɪŋ// defin·ing

1 essential or characteristic (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

describing the most important feature that makes something what it is.

serving to define or distinguish the essential nature of a person, group, or period.

Example

The invention of the smartphone was a defining moment for modern technology.

Example

The architect's use of sustainable materials became the defining characteristic of her later work, setting her apart from her contemporaries.

Usage

Usually placed before the noun it describes.
- insignificant
- minor
2 explaining or setting limits (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the act of explaining what a word means or deciding the limits of something.

the present participle of 'define', referring to the act of stating a precise meaning or establishing boundaries.

Example

The committee is still defining the rules for the new competition.

Example

By clearly defining the scope of the project at the outset, the manager successfully avoided the common trap of scope creep during the implementation phase.
- explaining
- specifying
- delimiting
- confusing
- obscuring