definite meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

definite

adj

UK /ˈdɛfɪnɪt/ · CA, US /ˈdɛfɪnɪt/

Etymology From Latin dēfīnītus, past participle of dēfīniō, whence also English define.

Having distinct limits.

definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval
[…] elements combine in definite proportions […]1837, William Whewell, chapter 8, in History of the Inductive Sciences, volume 3, book 14, London: John W. Parker, page 145:

Free from any doubt.

Determined; resolved; decided.

[…] idiots in this case of favour would Be wisely definite1611 April (first recorded performance), William Shakespeare, “The Tragedie of Cymbeline”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, →OCLC, [Act I, scene vi]:

Human sciences, Linguistics, Sciences Designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing, or group of persons or things

Synonyms: finite, definite, limited
Antonyms: indefinite, nebulous, vague
Derived terms: definite article, definite clause, definite description, definite integral, definitely, definite maybe, definiteness, definite verb, definitize, definitude, nondefinite, positive-definite, quasidefinite, semidefinite, undefinite
Related terms: define, definitive, indefinite, certain, distinct

noun

Etymology From Latin dēfīnītus, past participle of dēfīniō, whence also English define.

Grammar, Human sciences, Linguistics, Sciences A word or phrase that designates a specified or identified person or entity.

Obsolete Anything that is defined or determined.