definition

<logic, epistemology, philosophy of science, science, linguistics> an explanation of the meaning of a word. The five major kinds of definition (distinguished by the functions they may be used to perform) include: stipulative, lexical, precising, theoretical, and persuasive. Recommended Reading: Essays on Definition, ed. by Juan C. Sager (Benjamins, 2000); Richard Robinson, Definition (Clarendon, 1950); and Definitions and Definability: Philosophical Perspectives, ed. by James H. Fetzer, David Shatz, and George N. Schlesinger (Kluwer, 1991).

[A Dictionary of Philosophical Terms and Names]

<2001-11-13>

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Nearby terms: definite clause « definite description « definite sentence « definition » degrees of freedom » deism » de jure