definition

A Definition may be a statement of the essential properties of a certain thing, or a statement of equivalence between one expression and another, usually more complex expression that gives meaning of the first.

A thing being is called (from Latin) a DEFINIENDUM the expression which defines it is called a DEFINIENS.


Lexical Definition

* a "dictionary Definition" reports the meaning of the word as it normally used.


Intensional Definition

* of the general term, on the other hand,is the sets of features which are shared by everything to which it applies.


Extensional Definition

* of a general term is just the collection of individual thing to which it correctly applied.


Contextual Definition

* some words cannot be clearly define on their own, but it is possible to offer schema for defining every sentence which they occur.


Stipulative Definition

* is the specification of meaning adopted or assumed specifically for the purposes for argument or discussion in a given context.


Ostensive Definition

* gives the meaning of a term by pointing out he thing denoted by, it, or pointing out of examples of the kind of thing meant by it.


Precising Definition

* is the definition that extends the dictionary definition of a term for specific purpose by including additional criteria that narrow down the set of thing meant by it.


Operational Definition

* of quantity is a specific process whereby it is measured.