Definition:
In a paragraph or essay, an explanation and/or illustration of a word, thing, or concept. See also:
- Definition
- 60 Essay Topics: Definition
- A Definition of a Jerk, by Sydney J. Harris
- Gifts, by Ralph Waldo Emerson
- The Symbolism of Poetry, by W.B. Yeats
- Happiness by Nikos Kazantzakis
- The Meaning of Home, by John Berger
Etymology:
From the Latin, "boundary"Observations:
- "An extended definition may explain the word's etymology or historical roots, describe sensory characteristics of something (how it looks, feels, sounds, tastes, smells), identify its parts, indicate how something is used, explain what it is not, provide an example of it, and/or note similarities or differences between this term and other words or things."
(Stephen Reid, The Prentice Hall Guide for College Writers, 2003) - "More often than not, an extended definition informs. Sometimes you inform by clarifying something that is complex. . . . A definition can also inform by bringing the reader to a fresh appreciation of something familiar or taken for granted. . . .
"In addition to informing, an extended definition can allow you to express feelings and relate experience. For example, you could define teenager by explaining what your teenage years were like and in this way relate part of your experience with adolescence. . . .
"A definition can also entertain, as when you write a humorous definition of freshman, to amuse your reader. . . .
"Finally, an extended definition can serve a persuasive purpose. This is particularly true when the definition points to a conclusion about a controversial issue. . . .
"Many times, you will incorporate formal definition with other patterns of development. For example, a history paper might require you to define the chivalric code and then go on to explain its effects."
(Barbara Fine Clouse, Patterns for a Purpose, McGraw-Hill, 2003)
