Definition of Terms

Definition and Its Importance

• A definition is a statement that gives the meaning of a term, helping to eliminate verbal disputes and misunderstandings.
• Definitions can serve a variety of functions, such as enhancing precision and clarity.

Parts of a Definition

• Definiendum: the word or symbol being defined, also called the term to be defined.
• Definiens: the symbol or group of symbols that explains the meaning of the definiendum.

Types of Definition

Lexical Definition

• Reports the meaning of a term already used within a language.
• Aims to inform someone of the accepted meaning of the term.
• Examples: defining 'river' as a natural channel of water that flows through land.

Stipulative Definition

• Introduces a new meaning to an already existing word or a new word.
• Does not report the meaning of words as they are actually used.
• Examples: defining 'selfie' as a photograph taken of oneself.

Precising Definition

• Devised to eliminate ambiguity or vagueness of a word.
• Aims to describe a concept more precisely.
• Examples: defining a meter as the distance light travels in one second.

Theoretical Definition

• Involves the theory of a subject rather than practical application.
• Attempts to define an object according to its true nature.
• Examples: defining table salt as sodium chloride in chemistry.

Persuasive Definition

• Formulated to resolve a dispute or influence attitudes by stirring emotions.
• Often relies on the use of emotive language.
• Examples: defining democracy as a government of the people, for the people, and by the people.

Operational Definition

• Defines a word by stating the necessary conditions required for something to be called such a term.
• Specifies a measurement procedure.
• Examples: defining intelligence as a score on an intelligence test.