definite

adjective

def·​i·​nite ˈde-fə-nit How to pronounce definite (audio)
ˈdef-nət
Synonyms of definitenext
1
a
: free of all ambiguity, uncertainty, or obscurity
demanded a definite answer
Her position on the issue was definite.
b
: unquestionable, decided
the quarterback was a definite hero today
a definite masterpiece
saw a definite improvement in her grades
2
grammar : typically designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing
the definite article the
3
: having distinct or certain limits
set definite standards for pupils to meet
… the side striking the new coin is flattened and less definite.—Jed Stevenson
4
a
of floral organs : being constant in number, usually less than 20, and occurring in multiples of the petal number
stamens definite
b
: cymose
a definite inflorescence
definiteness noun

Did you know?

Spelling: It's Definite NOT Definate

This word can be tricky to spell because its last syllable has that amorphous schwa sound as its vowel.

To remember that the word ends in ite and not ate you can think of a few things:

The word definite doesn't go on forever; it's finite. (Get it? deFINITE.)

The etymology of definite can also be useful in remembering the word's spelling. Definite traces back to the Latin word finire meaning "to limit, end, FINISH." Connect finish to definite and voilà: you can definitely spell definite correctly.

Synonyms

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Choose the Right Synonym for definite

explicit, definite, express, specific mean perfectly clear in meaning.

explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding.

explicit instructions

definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision.

the law is definite in such cases

express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance.

her express wishes

specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular.

two specific criticisms

Examples of definite in a Sentence

We'll need a definite answer by Tuesday. The answer is a definite no. I don't know anything definite yet. The teacher sets definite standards for her students. She seems to be pretty definite about leaving. I am definite that we will win.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Fillers have gone before town officials this past spring to present a concept plan to the Cedar Lake Planning Commission, which included restoring the chapel to be in use, but no definite decisions have been made. —Anna Ortiz, Chicago Tribune, 31 May 2025 More Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images While there are definite reasons for Indiana fans to be nervous, Haliburton is motivated to make sure the Pacers do not drop Game 6 at home. —Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025 That’s Arcturus, a star that has a definite orange-reddish glow to it. —Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 25 May 2025 Learning From Data To Reduce Risk Contrary to what many might believe, there are definite patterns for cyberattacks. —Reuven Aronashvili, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for definite

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin dēfīnītus, from past participle of dēfīnīre "to mark the limits of, determine, define"

First Known Use

1553, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of definite was in 1553

Phrases Containing definite

Rhymes for definite

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Browse Nearby Words

defining moment
definite
definite article
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/definite. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

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Kids Definition

definite

adjective
def·​i·​nite ˈdef-(ə-)nət How to pronounce definite (audio)
1
: having certain or distinct limits : fixed
a definite period of time
2
a
: clear in meaning : explicit, exact
a definite answer
b
: unquestionable
a definite improvement
3
: typically designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing
the definite article "the"
definitely adverb
definiteness noun

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