Defination vs. Definition: The Correct Spellings

Using the right words is crucial in any form of written communication. The term definition is a staple in the English language and is essential in various contexts, from academic papers to everyday conversations. Remembering its correct spelling and avoiding the mistake of writing "defination" can help ensure clarity and understanding in your communications.

In the world of spelling and vocabulary, the choice often becomes whether to use "defination" or definition. The correct word in American English is definition.On the other hand, definition is a common misspelling and is not recognized in standard dictionaries. Both words might seem quite similar, but only one of them, definition, stands as the correct form.

The word definition can be traced back to the Latin word "definire," which means 'to set bounds to.' Over time, as languages evolved and English adopted many Latin words, we got the term definition, which primarily means an explanation of the meaning of a word, phrase, etc.

For those looking to remember how to correctly spell definition, consider the root "define" and simply add the suffix "-ition." Remember, there's no "a" in the middle, so keep the "e" from "define" to get the correct spelling: definition.

There are various forms of this word, such as definitional (relating to definition) and definitive (most reliable or complete).

Incorrect: Can you provide a defination of what constitutes a healthy diet?

Correct: Can you provide a definition of what constitutes a healthy diet?

Incorrect: I struggle with the defination of complex mathematical concepts.

Correct: I struggle with the definition of complex mathematical concepts.

Incorrect: She looked up the word for its defination in the dictionary.

Correct: She looked up the word for its definition in the dictionary.

Incorrect: His essay lacks a clear defination of the key terms.

Correct: His essay lacks a clear definition of the key terms.

Incorrect: The lecture will cover the defination of renewable energy sources.

Correct: The lecture will cover the definition of renewable energy sources.

The action or process of defining something.

The clarity or precision of a particular action or distinction.

The degree of sharpness of an image, sound, or other sensory input.

A clear expression of something in terms of its essential qualities or nature.

A clear and specific explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase.

A statement of the meaning of a word, phrase, or term, as in a dictionary entry.

A statement or description of the fundamental character or scope of something

The act or process of stating a precise meaning or significance; formulation of a meaning

The state of being clearly outlined

The level of detail in a recording, production, or digital encoding of an image or sound.

A statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol (dictionary definitions).

A clear instance conforming to the dictionary or textbook definition.

A statement expressing the essential nature of something; formulation

The action or process of defining.

The act of defining; determination of the limits.

A product of defining.

The action or power of describing, explaining, or making definite and clear.

Clarity of visual presentation, distinctness of outline or detail.

Clarity, especially of musical sound in reproduction.

Sharp demarcation of outlines or limits.

(bodybuilding) The degree to which individual muscles are distinct on the body.

(programming) A statement which provides a previous declaration with a value or body of a subroutine (in the case of function).

(mathematics) A statement that establishes the referent of a term or notation.

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

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.

Description; sort.

An exact enunciation of the constituents which make up the logical essence.

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

a concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol

clarity of outline;

Understanding the definition of a word can improve your language skills.

A dictionary provides the definition of words.

The definition of 'empathy' is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

The teacher explained the definition of 'photosynthesis' to the class.

Can you give me the definition of 'sustainability'?

The legal document included a definition of the terms used within it.

Knowing the definition of 'democracy' is important for understanding politics.

He asked for a simple definition of quantum physics.

The textbook contains a definition of each scientific term.

A good definition explains the meaning of a word clearly and concisely.

The definition of 'courage' is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it.

The biologist provided a definition for 'ecosystem'.

The definition of 'art' can vary greatly depending on personal perspectives.

The math problem required understanding the definition of 'variable'.

She looked up the definition of 'integrity' in the dictionary.

The definition of 'innovation' involves creating something new or improving something that already exists.

Understanding the definition of 'respect' is crucial for social interactions.

The definition of 'culture' encompasses the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group.

He offered a detailed definition of 'leadership' in his presentation.

The philosophy book explores the definition of 'happiness'.

The debate focused on the definition of 'justice'.

She gave a comprehensive definition of 'literacy'.

The brochure gives a clear definition of the services offered.

A clear definition helps prevent misunderstandings.

The definition of 'friendship' goes beyond just knowing someone well.

Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Used to emphasize that something is precisely described by its meaning.

To expand the meaning of something beyond its usual limits.

To match or conform to an explanation or description.

Something that cannot be adequately described or explained.

What constitutes or represents achievement.

To challenge or dispute the meaning of something.

To make a description more specific or restricted.

The quality of being clear and distinct.

The absence of clarity or precision.

Classified or considered as per the explanation.

To make a description more inclusive.

To make a description more precise or limited.

To fulfill or satisfy the criteria described.

To embody or fully satisfy the criteria described.

To change or update the meaning of something.

What one considers to be joy or contentment.

An individual's unique understanding or interpretation of something.

The perfect example of something.

To increase the scope or breadth of what is included.

The word "definition" is derived from the Latin word "definitio," meaning "a bounding, boundary, or limit."

"Defination" is wrong because it's not recognized in standard English dictionaries. The proper term is "definition."

No, "defination" is not recognized in any standard form of English, be it American, British, or other dialects.

The difference is that "definition" is the correct spelling representing the meaning or explanation of a word, whereas "defination" is an incorrect form.

Remember the word "finite" within "definition," emphasizing the setting of boundaries or limits.

No, "definition" can also refer to the clarity or precision of images, sounds, or actions, among other contexts.

The error might arise from phonetic transcription or simple oversight.

Yes, there are other forms like "definitive," "definitely," and "define."

Absolutely. "Definition" can refer to clarity in images or sounds in disciplines like photography, television production, and music.

In physical fitness, "definition" refers to the visibility of muscle details on the body, often a result of low body fat and toned muscles.