Definition \Def`i*ni"tion\, n. [L. definitio: cf. F. d['e]finition.]

1. The act of defining; determination of the limits; as, a telescope accurate in definition.

2. Act of ascertaining and explaining the signification; a description of a thing by its properties; an explanation of the meaning of a word or term; as, the definition of ``circle;'' the definition of ``wit;'' an exact definition; a loose definition.

Definition being nothing but making another understand by words what the term defined stands for. --Locke.

3. Description; sort. [R.]

``A new creature of another definition.'' --Jer. Taylor.

4. (Logic) An exact enunciation of the constituents which make up the logical essence.

5. (Opt.) Distinctness or clearness, as of an image formed by an optical instrument; precision in detail.

Syn: Definition, Explanation, Description.

Usage: A definition is designed to settle a thing in its compass and extent; an explanation is intended to remove some obscurity or misunderstanding, and is therefore more extended and minute; a description enters into striking particulars with a view to interest or impress by graphic effect. It is not therefore true, though often said, that description is only an extended definition. ``Logicians distinguish definitions into essential and accidental. An essential definition states what are regarded as the constituent parts of the essence of that which is to be defined; and an accidental definition lays down what are regarded as circumstances belonging to it, viz., properties or accidents, such as causes, effects, etc.'' --Whately.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)