Explaining what something means, or being the characteristic that best represents something or someone.
From Latin 'definire' meaning 'to set bounds or limits,' combining 'de-' (from) and 'finire' (to end). Literally means setting the boundaries of meaning.
Dictionaries are power—by defining words a certain way, they literally set the boundaries of what can be thought about and discussed, which is why marginalized groups fight to get their words into official dictionaries.
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