defining

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“As with prior IPO waves, strong demand — not excess supply — is likely to be the defining feature.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Lawyers also dug up archaic legal tracts and 19th century dictionary entries defining the word “election.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

From the Greek philosopher Archimedes shouting “eureka” in his bathtub to the German psychologist Karl Bühler defining the concept of an “Aha!” moment two centuries later, sudden jolts of realization can hit rather quickly.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The irony, of course, is that Elmo’s defining trait is that he likes everyone.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2026

Briony resisted because she wanted to chase in solitude the faint thrill of possibility she had felt before, the elusive excitement at a prospect she was coming close to defining, at least emotionally.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan