# defining

/dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /dɪfˈaɪnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/defining
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. essential or characteristic

adjective · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. explaining or setting limits

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- The chef has a very defining style of cooking.
- Winning the championship was the defining moment of her professional career.
- The use of light and shadow became the defining characteristic of his later paintings, distinguishing his work from that of his contemporaries.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.