Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Define \De*fine"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Defined}; p. pr. & vb.
   n. {Defining}.] [OE. definer, usually, to end, to finish, F.
   d['e]finir to define, L. definire to limit, define; de- +
   finire to limit, end, finis boundary, limit, end. See
   {Final}, {Finish}.]
   1. To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
      ``To define controversies.'' --Barrow.

   2. To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark
      the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or
      country.

   3. To determine with precision; to mark out with
      distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as, the
      defining power of an optical instrument.

            Rings . . . very distinct and well defined. --Sir I.
                                                  Newton.

   4. To determine the precise signification of; to fix the
      meaning of; to describe accurately; to explain; to expound
      or interpret; as, to define a word, a phrase, or a
      scientific term.

            They define virtue to be life ordered according to
            nature.                               --Robynson
                                                  (More's
                                                  Utopia).

Source : WordNet®

defining
     n : any process serving to define the shape of something [syn: {shaping}]