\Def`i*ni"tion\, n. [L. definitio: cf. F.
d['e]finition.]
1. The act of defining; determination of the limits; as, a
   telescope accurate in definition.

2. 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.

         Definition being nothing but making another
         understand by words what the term defined stands
         for.                                  --Locke.

3. Description; sort. [R.] ``A new creature of another
   definition.'' --Jer. Taylor.

4. (Logic) An exact enunciation of the constituents which
   make up the logical essence.

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

Syn: {Definition}, {Explanation}, {Description}.

Usage: 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.