Syn. — Definition, Explanation, Description. 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.
DEFINITIONAL
Def`i*ni"tion*al, a.
Defn: Relating to definition; of the nature of a definition; employed in defining.
DEFINITIVE
De*fin"i*tive, a. Etym: [L. definitivus: cf. F. définitif.]
1. Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express. A strict and definitive truth. Sir T. Browne. Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation. Prescott.
2. Limiting; determining; as, a definitive word.
3. Determined; resolved. [Obs.] Shak.
DEFINITIVE
De*fin"i*tive, n. (Gram.)
Defn: A word used to define or limit the extent of the signification of a common noun, such as the definite article, and some pronouns.
Note: Definitives . . . are commonly called by grammarians articles. . . . They are of two kinds, either those properly and strictly so called, or else pronominal articles, such as this, that, any, other, some, all, no, none, etc. Harris (Hermes).