extended definition thesis statement

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UMGC Effective Writing Center How to Write an Extended Definition

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Usually when you hear the word "definition" you think of a dictionary or encyclopedia. For example, a juvenile delinquent is an underage person convicted of crime or antisocial behavior. Likewise, a venture capitalist is a person who provides money for innovative projects.

Perhaps you have written a narrative essay about a personal experience in which you are called upon to classify and to analyze causes and effects. All of these patterns and more can be used in your paragraphs to clarify and extend the term you have chosen.

Example: Single Pattern

Sometimes a single pattern will be sufficient to extend the definition to achieve the effect you want for your audience. For example, let's say in an introductory sociology course, you are introducing the term "juvenile delinquent" to the class. You could use the "classify" pattern to clarify how broadly the term in used in this field:

• Term: juvenile delinquent
• Standard definition: an underage person who has committed a crime.
• Pattern: Classify
• Overall Point: To understand "juvenile delinquent" in this field, it's necessary to know the major types of delinquents.
• The first type of delinquent is . . .
• The second type of delinquent is . . .
• The third type of delinquent is . . .

Example: Multi Pattern

Depending on the term, you may find that using several patterns is the best way to help shape your audience's understanding of a term. For example, let's consider the innocent sounding term "arbitration." Maybe you wish to make the point that sometimes legal terms are used to desensitize us from what is really taking place. Consider this example:

• Term: Arbitration
• Standard definition: legal process of resolving a dispute
• Classify Pattern--list and define types of arbitration, including "forced arbitration"
• Narration Pattern--The FAIR Act seeks to end the use of forced arbitration by U.S. employers
• Cause/Effect pattern: Multiple examples of the victims of forced arbitration have pressured Congress to act through legislation

Your task in writing an extended definition is to add to the standard/notional definition in a way that will allow your audience to gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the term in a particular context. Whether you do this by adding facts, telling what a term does not include, or applying any of the many development patterns (classify, illustrate, cause/effect, compare/contrast, narration, description), matters not. Only the development of clear understanding between you and your audience should be the ultimate goal.

Video Tutorial: Writing the Extended Definition Essay

Follow along with UMGC's Effective Writing Center as they walk through the Extended Definition Essay.

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60 Writing Topics for Extended Definitions

These essays go beyond dictionary entries using analysis and examples

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Simply put, a definition is a statement of the meaning of a word or phrase. An extended definition goes beyond what can be found in a dictionary, offering an expanded analysis and illustration of a concept that might be abstract, controversial, unfamiliar, or frequently misunderstood. Take, for example, writings such as William James' "Pragmatic Theory of Truth" or John Berger's " The Meaning of Home ."

Approaching the Abstract

Abstract concepts, including many of the broad terms in the list that follows, need to be "brought to earth" with an example to relate what they mean to your reader and to get your point or opinion across. You could illustrate the concepts with anecdotes from your personal life or examples from the news or current events, or write an opinion piece. There's no single method for developing and organizing a paragraph or essay by extended definition. The 60 concepts listed here can be defined in various ways and from different points of view.

Brainstorming and Prewriting

Start with brainstorming your topic . If you work well with lists, write the word at the top of the paper and fill the rest of the page with all the things that the word makes you think of, feel, see, or even smell, without stopping. It's OK to go off on tangents, as you might find a surprising connection that could make a powerful, insightful, or even humorous essay. Alternatively, brainstorm by writing the word in the middle of your paper and connect other related words to it and each other.

As you develop your angle, think about the concept's background, features, characteristics, and parts. What is the concept's opposite? What are its effects on you or others? Something in your list or word map will spark a writing idea or theme to use to illustrate the abstract concept, and then it's off to the races. If you run into a dead end the first time, go back to your list and pick another idea. It's possible that your first draft turns out to be prewriting and leads to a better idea that can be developed further and can possibly even incorporate the prewriting exercise. Time spent writing is time spent exploring and is never wasted, as sometimes it takes a bit of pursuit to discover the perfect idea.

If seeing examples will help spark your essay, take a look at "Gifts," by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Gore Vidal's "Definition of Prettiness," or "A Definition of Pantomime," by Julian Barnes.

60 Topic Suggestions

Looking for a place to start? Here are 60 words and phrases so broad that writings on them could be infinite:

• Sportsmanship
• Self-assurance
• Sensitivity
• Peace of mind
• Right to privacy
• Common sense
• Team player
• Healthy appetite
• Frustration
• Sense of humor
• Conservative
• A good (or bad) teacher or professor
• Physical fitness
• A happy marriage
• True friendship
• Citizenship
• A good (or bad) coach
• Intelligence
• Personality
• A good (or bad) roommate
• Political correctness
• Peer pressure
• Persistence
• Responsibility
• Human rights
• Sophistication
• Self-respect
• A good (or bad) boss
• A good (or bad) parent
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The Definition Essay

A definition essay should include, where to start, writing process.

A definition essay is one that explains a term, either by defining what it means or by clarifying which meaning is intended when a word has several meanings. For instance, a writer might need to define slicing to someone unfamiliar with golf or the term koi to someone unfamiliar with tropical fish. If the writer calls a friend a nonconformist, he or she might ask the writer for the definition of that word. A writer may disagree with his or her peers over the meaning of the word feminism even though they share similar politics. Clearly, definitions are an important party of daily communication. Definition Essays are meant to help the reader to see beyond the basic, dictionary definition of a word, that he or she might fully grasp the term or concept discussed.

It is useful to include a brief explanation, so readers can begin to grasp the concept. This includes the term itself, the class to which the term belongs, and the distinguishing characteristics that differentiate this item from all others in its class.

• Trypophobia is a medically recognized fear that is an aversion to the sight of irregular patterns or clusters of small holes or bumps.

This type of essay focuses on a specific term and discusses it in detail. In order to help readers better understand a term, the author may describe a philosophy behind a movement, the uses of a specific item, or the different types of a specific emotion.

• Trypophobia is based on a deep-seated disgust that most humans have toward certain plants and medical conditions that cause patterns of holes, but these emotions have been allowed to be taken to an extreme.

The thesis of an extended-definition essay tells why the term is worth reading about. Some writers choose to separate the brief definition from their thesis, so it is important to look for both parts while reading and to be sure to include them in the paper.

Narration, description, illustration, process analysis, comparison and contrast, classification and division, cause and effect, and argumentative styles are all used to develop definition essays. To explain a term, more than one pattern of development can be used. For example, if defining a home run, an author may include his or her favorite baseball player’s best jogs around the bases in a narrative style. But if defining a style of art, a descriptive style may be more appropriate.

When the term being defined is so similar to another term that it can be confused with it, a writer may use negation to explain how that term is different from the others. This involves telling what the term is NOT in addition to what it is.

• Trypophobia is not recognized as a mental disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. It is not believed to be a learned cultural fear.

Make sure you feel familiar with the topic or that it can be easily learned. Narrow this topic to a specific term. For example, instead of writing about the term celebrity, focus on a political or Hollywood celebrity type.

Brainstorm a list of words that describe the term, such as people or actions that may be examples of it. Try describing the object to a friend and write down the words used. Write down everything a person would need to know to understand it. Try observing a person associated with the term. Look up the definition and etymology in the dictionary. Think of situations that reveal the meaning or similar terms. Do a search for the term on the internet.

Look over the brainstormed list, and organize the ideas based on the pattern of development chosen. If using narration (refer to narration essay handout for more details), then organize the ideas in chronological order. If using characteristics, a most-to-least or least-to-most order (see the descriptive essay handout for clarification and other examples) may be best.

Describe the term as specifically as possible. If describing Dalmatians, do not simply say they are a breed of dog. Describe the colors, behaviors, history, and benefits of this breed. DO NOT include the term as part of the definition. Look up synonyms to use if a similar word is needed. Include enough distinguishing characteristics so that readers will not mistake the term for something else in its class. Do not limit the definition so much that it becomes inaccurate. Use multiple transitions, and consider including the etymology of the term.

After completing the writing phase of an essay, make sure to proofread and go over everything again. When rereading an essay, we can spot grammar errors and consider ways to improve writing. Aside from improving spelling, grammar, and punctuation, you can expand on and explain your ideas more effectively. This stage can be completed effectively by slowly reviewing your writing, looking for specific errors you may struggle with, and double-checking everything.

This paragraph presents the term, provides background information, and includes the thesis statement. This paragraph may also suggest the importance or value of understanding the term. It might be helpful to use negation, what it is and is not. The introduction should include a brief standard definition of the term as well as a perspective or point of view about the term. Here is a good thesis statement:

• The future of wireless cable, a method of transmitting television signals through the air using microwaves, is uncertain.

These 2-3 paragraphs will explain the term's class and present characteristics that distinguish the term from others in the class. These paragraphs can also introduce facts, examples, descriptions, and so forth to make the term understandable. It should be organized using one or more development patterns (narration, cause, and effect, illustration, etc.). Each paragraph should include sufficient information for readers to understand each characteristic.

This paragraph references the thesis and draws the essay to a close. It will also leave the reader with a final impression of the term.

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• Ultimate Guide on Definition Essay: Writing Guide, Topics, Examples

What is  a definition essay

What is the purpose of a definition essay, difference between definition and definition essay.

• Definition essay structure

Definition essay outline

Approaches to defining a term.

• How to write a definition essay
• Ideas for definition essay topics

Definition essay topics for college

Interesting definition essay topics, common topics for definition essay, definition essay topics on love, definition essay topics on family, definition essay topics on freedom, definition essay topics on happiness.

• Extended definition essay examples

Pro tips for an outstanding definition essay

Things to be added to your extended definition paper:, things to avoid in a definition essay:.

• Where to get a definition essay without writing it

You have definitely learned some definitions at school and college or even had to give your own definition of some terms or things. You know that definitions are usually short and consist of one to three sentences. But now you’ve got a task to write the whole definition essay. Have no idea how to write more than three sentences and what are the definition essay parts? Do not worry! Read on to learn about the peculiarities of essay structure, check the topics, and see examples. Or pay someone to do my homework at a whole new level. 

Definition essay , also referred to as extended definition essay, is the type of academic writing that presupposes giving definition of a particular notion, term, concept, or phenomenon. It is much longer and specific than a simple definition. Definition essay provides different meanings of the word, both denotative and connotative, explains peculiarities of its uses, and offers examples. It may define some specific things such as a car, door, bad as well as abstract things, such as love, success, freedom, happiness.

One word can have different meanings in different domains of life, which are sometime controversial. The purpose of a definition essay is not just to provide a short explanation of a notion, but to mention all the possible meanings and usages of a words and specify the difference between those meaning and usages.

When it comes to defining some abstract notions, such as love, home, or family, the extended definition essay may also include the meaning of that word to the author, which cannot be found in dictionaries. Our American dream essay can be a good example for this kind of writing. Pay attention to different writing tricks and implement them in your work.

Be sure, definition and definition essay are two different things. Definition essay is much more specific and wider notion than just a definition.

• Definition  is a statement of a specific meaning of a word.
• Extended definition essay  provides all the possible meanings of the word (denotative and connotative), explains difference between them and their usage, provides examples, and offers author’s understanding of that word.

Definition essay structure 

Definition essay is a type of expository essay. Thus, it has a classical essay structure, which consists of 5 components: introduction, 3 body paragraphs, and conclusion.

A typical extended definition essay outline looks as follows:

Introduction of a definition essay

• Start with a sentence that will spark the reader’s interest to read your essay. Usually it is called a hook. It might be an anecdote , a funny story, an interesting fact, or your personal experience.
• Provide background information 
• Specify the term, notion, concept, etc. you will define in your essay
• Thesis statement of a definition essay is a short definition of a term or notion you are going to discuss in your writing 

Body paragraphs (at least three)

• Provide different approaches to defining a meaning of a chosen word
• Present only one approach per paragraph
• Provide example for each definition
• If the definitions have slight differences clearly define them and exemplify
• Make sure to include a topic sentence in each paragraph

Conclusion of a definition essay

• In the conclusion part summarize all the main points you have mentioned in your essay. Please do not just repeat or copy-paste, but analyze and synthesize.

There exist different approaches to defining a term. Here are the most common techniques:

• Denotation - providing a dictionary definition
• Connotation - mentioning implied meaning of a term
• Enumeration - giving a list of all the possible meanings
• Analogy or analysis - comparing and contrasting similar notions from the same class of a word you define
• By function - defining the term by the functions it performs
• By structure - defining the term by explaining how it is organized
• Negation   - is  proving a definition of a term by explaining what it is not

How to write a definition essay 

If you do not know how to start writing a definition essay, we have created a logical algorithm for you.

• Choose the word you are going to define
• Consider your audience. Make sure that the term you have chosen is relevant, that it will be interesting for them, and that you will be able to explain it to them. 
• Make a research and check the definitions of that word in different dictionaries
• Also check the origin of the term you define. It might help you understand the word better and can also serve as a hook.
• Create a definition essay thesis statement. It is a short definition of your word.
• Write an introductory part in which you should add a hook sentence, specify the word to be defined, and include a thesis statement, i.e. short definition
• In the body paragraphs present different meaning of a a word by using different approaches. If the term has diverse or contradicting definitions in some contexts or areas of life, clearly explain those differences and give examples.
• If you are defining some abstract concepts (such as love or happiness), give your own definition and understanding of that word.
• In the concluding part, restate the thesis statement and summarize all the main points of an essay.
• Proofread your paper for grammar, formatting, or stylistic mistakes and plagiarism.

Need to write a 1000 word essay ? Worries no. We prepared a special blog for our users that will help to solve this issue.

Ideas for definition essay topics 

We have collected the most interesting ideas of definition essay topics for your inspiration:

• What is the meaning of education for you
• What person do you consider education
• Is cheating a crime?
• What is beauty?
• What makes a good student
• Who is a good/bad professor
• A teacher is always a student?
• Laziness and success are incompatible
• Wealth is abundance?
• Creativity is inborn or acquired?
• A person considers happiness to be something they cannot get
• What does it mean to be kind?
• What is a balance in life?
• Who are good parents?
• Can generosity be measured?
• Does the universe have boundaries?
• What it means to be respected
• Who is a hero?
•  Is a hero always a positive character?

You may browse different types of topics to come up with some interesting ideas. Start with informative essay topics you will find in our library.

• Can advertisements be considered an art?
• What is hatred?
• Can trust be defined
• American dream definition
• What is respect?
• What is wisdom?
• Wisdom comes with age only?
• Racism and discrimination
• Parental love
• Is love the same as devotion
• Passion and love - synonyms?
• Universal meaning of love. Does it exist?
• What does it mean to feel loved
• Sharing is caring?
• Definition of love in poetry
• Ways to express love
• Perfect family
• Can friends be called a family?
• Family values
• What makes a family
• Two people are a family?
• What family means in a XXI family?
• What makes up a family
• Blood relation is the only criteria for a group of people to be called a family?
• What is freedom for you?
• Definition of freedom in literature
• What is considered freedom in a XXI century?
• Freedom is independence?
• Love is freedom?
• What is freedom of speech?
• Can freedom be stolen?
• Freedom at the times of slavery
• What is a happiness for you
• Happiness is abstract or material?
• Can happiness be measured?
• What do you feel when you are  happy?
• What is a happy marriage?
• Happiness in books
• Happiness as a state of mind
• Happiness is myth?

Extended definition essay examples 

To have a better understanding of how a definition essay looks like, we have added definition essay examples for your inspiration.

Definition essay sample about happiness.

Extended definition essay about love.

Consider the essay tips from professional writers that will help you make your definition essay interesting, clear, and effective

• Consider your audience when choosing and defining the term
• Make sure that you understand the notion you define
• The word you have chosen should be complex enough to be defined in an essay
• Provide anecdotes, facts, and examples that will be clear for you and your audience.
• Explain a difficult term using common words
• If the word is complex, divide it into parts and explain each part separately
• Do not define two different notions in one essay
• Do not take a too broad or narrow concept
• Do not forget to mention the term being defined
• Do not use repetitive sentence structures (such as Happiness is..)

Where to get a definition essay without writing it 

Now, you are almost a pro and the only thing left to to is to take your time and write your definition essay. If you need essay writing help or a person who can choose an interesting topic for your definition essay, try essay writing help. Our expert writers can complete any type of essay for you based on the instructions you provide. We have experts in different fields who will be able to define and explain the term of any complexity. Save your time and receive an A+.

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• How to Write Definition Essay + Topics
• How to Write a Definition Essay: Ultimate Guide with Topics and Examples

What Is a Definition Essay and Its Purpose?

Difference between definition and definition essay, how to write a definition essay outline, steps for writing an informative definition essay, how to start a definition essay, thesis statement for a definition essay, main body paragraphs, definition essay conclusion tips, definition essay topics for college, common topics, interesting topics, argument of definition topics, extended definition topics, definition essay examples, bottom line, 1. what is a definition essay format, 2. what is a good word to write a definition essay on, 3. how many paragraphs should a definition essay have, 4. what are the common mistakes when writing a definition essay.

Essay writing can be a challenge for students because some academic papers require special skills, knowledge, and in-depth research. Some tasks are not complicated. And a definition essay is such an assignment. Its main aim is to define the term by giving an explanation that is wider than a regular dictionary entry . If you ask yourself, Why write essay when you can just check the meaning in the dictionary? Or looking for answers to questions like: 

• How to create a definition essay outline?
• What are the steps for writing a definition essay?
• What are good definition essay topics?
• Where to get essay examples?

You will find them in this article. You will learn how to write a definition essay, pick the best topic, structure your paper, and see excellent definition essay samples for better understanding. These simple but useful tips from our essay writing service will help you complete this task fast and effectively. So, read on.

The term “definition essay”, also referred to as an extended definition essay, explains its meaning by itself. It’s an essay type, the purpose of which is to give a complete definition of the particular word, term, notion, concept, or phenomenon. It also helps to solve the issue of controversy in case one notion has several meanings, explains connotations and usage in different contexts, as well as provides examples . The quality of a definition paper depends on your writing skills and understanding of a topic. People don’t like reading about obvious things. Such terms as an apple, sky, book are not the best topics for your definition essays. Choose abstract terms , such as love, freedom, happiness, etc. You should expand the readers’ knowledge, give them new information they can’t find in a regular dictionary. 

There exist several approaches to defining a term. Most commonly, they can be used together. However, in some cases, only one particular approach can be used. You can choose the one that is more suitable for the word you’ve chosen. These approaches are as follows:

• Denotation is providing a dictionary definition of a term.
• Connotation is the meaning beyond dictionary definition. It can express the person's attitude and the meanings the word has acquired with time.
• Comparison or analogy is an approach when you compare two similar notions.
• Enumeration means listing all the meanings of the word.
• Negation explains the notion by contradiction by explaining what it is not.

Although they might seem similar, definition paragraph and definition essays are different assignments. Definition only explains the meaning of a notion, concept, term, phenomenon, etc. An essay also helps to solve the issue of controversy in case there exist several diverse meanings of the same notion. It informs the reader about the possible interpretations and approaches to the term. It also describes its peculiarities and possible contexts within which the term or notion can occur. Thus, the main difference between definition and definition essay is that an essay provides a full context of usage of the notion. A definition only gives a basic dictionary explanation. Now you know the answer to a popular question “what is a definition essay?” Therefore, it is time to learn how to create an outline, find the best topic, and write definition essays.

Any piece of academic writing has its specific components. You should know it to meet the paper criteria and create a proper essay. Definition essay structure includes the regular parts of any other academic writing:

• Introduction.
• Thesis statement.
• Body paragraphs (its number depends on the term you are going to explain and the complexity of the chosen subject).
• Conclusion.

As is the case with any other creative assignment, this task can’t be written without an outline. It is a plan of your paper highlighting all the main points . Some teachers might require an essay outline before students start writing an essay. They do this to make sure students understand the essay structure and organize their ideas logically.  To create an outline, place your thesis at the top to understand the perspective of your paper. After this, write down one-sentence main idea for each paragraph, i.e. one sentence for intro, each body paragraph, and conclusion. Develop all your ideas logically and express them clearly.

Drafting an outline is only one step of definition writing. Wonder how to write your essay fast and without buzz? Follow these simple recommendations.

• Choose the term. Make sure the word you choose is neither too broad nor too narrow.
• Conduct research. Before you start writing, make sure there is enough information on the topic, and take notes during research. Find all the possible meanings and peculiarities of usage. You can find them in dictionaries and encyclopedias.
• Formulate a thesis statement. In this case, it will be the definition of your term.
• Draft an outline. Organize your ideas logically in an essay outline.
• Write your paper. Develop ideas from an outline in your introduction, main body, and conclusion.
• Double-check your essay. Proofread the paper to ensure it is devoid of any type of mistakes and plagiarism.

Now that you know the structure of a definition essay and have a writing plan, let’s discuss each part of a definition essay in detail.

Keep in mind that before you embark on writing an informative and interesting introduction, you should make yourself familiar with a few rules. An introduction must include several essential elements. The first one is an essay hook. Its purpose is to catch readers’ attention and make them interested in reading the essay to the end. You can mention something catchy and intriguing instead of the basic definition from a dictionary (it depends on the effect you want to achieve). A hook for essay can be:

• Curious fact or statistics
• A relevant quote
• A real-life example
• A rhetorical question

Proceed by introducing your topic . And finish the introductory paragraph with a thesis statement . This section should be brief but informative.

Thesis should express the main idea of your essay. Considering different types of essays , a definition of the notion you are writing about would serve this purpose. In any case, a thesis statement should be clear, specific, concise, and debatable . Sometimes you are required to write a definition of a concrete notion. In this case, you will find all the necessary information in dictionaries. It is more interesting when you are writing about some abstract notions, such as love or home, and have to create your own definition.

Most commonly, the main body should consist of at least three paragraphs. There might be many more paragraphs. It depends on the complexity of the chosen subject and the requirements of your English tutor for this assignment. The fundamental goal of a student who deals with definition essays is to define the term, explain different meanings and usages, as well as give examples. Another essential point is understanding the notion under investigation. You have to provide enough information to uncover all the crucial facts about the word, explain its meaning, origin, etymology , etc. Definition essays must be based on facts and provide the audience with a personal vision of the author. So, look through the sources, write a bibliography page and make sure that you have a deep understanding of the theme before you immerse yourself in definition essay writing.  To succeed with a definition essay body paragraph, you should follow some rules:

• Make sure you properly understand the chosen word
• Explain one idea per paragraph
• If the word you’ve defined has more than one meaning, explain all of them.
• Use examples, provide various points of view to support the core information.
• Proofread your essay to eliminate all the mistakes and improve the grade. 
• Properly cite all the borrowed ideas and create a reference list. 
• Always run your essays through plagiarism checkers to ensure it’s plagiarism-free. 

Conclusion is an indispensable part of an essay, which makes it complete. The primary aim of this part is to give readers a complete definition of the chosen term. Restate your thesis statement, summarize the main points of your paper, and provide a general conclusion. If you explained an abstract term or created your own definition, you may share how it influences your life or perception of some things. Real-life examples always work well.

How to write an extended definition essay without an excellent topic that grabs the readers’ attention? It may be a troublesome task; you have to pick or think up a great topic for your definition paper. In this case, have a look at these useful tips.

• Give preference to abstract notions rather than general words that are clear and don’t have any hidden meaning.
• If the term is too broad, discuss only some of its usages or collocations.
• Give examples for better understanding.
• Your essay must be based on facts (a list of references must be added).
• Don’t pick terms that are too debatable because you like the word. Your goal is to inform, not to persuade.
• Make sure you have enough information on the term
• Give preference to the topics to write about that are familiar to you.
• Read sample definition essays for inspiration.

If you want to write something about love, you can choose an idea from the list below.

• The meaning of love for various people.
• Shakespeare wrote a lot of love sonnets. How does this writer define love in his sonnets?
• What is true love: key facts about this definition?
• What explanation does Tim O’Brien give for the term love?
• Human’s freedom and love: what does it mean for us?
• Counseling and love: similar aspects of these terms.
• How do people explain love?
• Love in our everyday life, how do people show their love to others?
• The philosophical meaning of the term love.
• What is your favorite book about love?

Choose an idea from the list of excellent topics for a family definition to create the top-notch academic paper.

• The ideal family through American history.
• How did society change the meaning of the term family in the past years?
• Why is it difficult to give a single explanation for the term family?
• How family and responsibility are connected? Can we compare both terms?
• The importance of family in the modern world.
• What types of families are normal in our society?
• What are family values and how to develop them?
• How to spend the summer with your family?
• What is the institution of marriage? What factors can determine it?
• Who is a single parent? What problems does a single parent face in modern society?

A proper topic is a huge step to writing an excellent definition essay. Have a look at our topics for a freedom definition essay and choose the best sample for yourself:

• Historical evolution of the term “freedom”.
• What does the term “freedom” mean for various cultures? Find a corresponding article, analyze it and provide the answer.
• Independence definition: why should you understand the meaning of this word?
• How does Eric Foner define the freedom in his Story of American Freedom?
• How does school define the term “freedom”?
• Is it possible to give a comprehensive explanation of freedom?
• How do people lose freedom; what does this mean for them?
• How does the gas valve steel our freedom? Define the key strategies for development of the country.
• Why is freedom of speech crucial for modern society?
• What is religious freedom? Trace its evolution and base your writing on different articles.

If you can’t decide on the best definition essay topic, try one of these exciting ideas:

• Why are the terms of money and happiness connected for some people?
• Person’s happiness and the factors that determine this feeling.
• What is pseudo happiness; why do some people mix up true and pseudo happiness?
• What is a happy life, what factors define this term for people?
• The term “happiness” has a lot of definitions. Provide the audience with the best of them.
• What writer does prefer covering the topic of happiness?
• Happiness in our everyday life: how can you feel it?
• Philosophical meaning of the term happiness.
• Happiness and well-being, are these terms correlated?

If you don’t have specific requirements for the topic, you may pick one of the common topics for your definition essay.

• Money and success. What do these terms have in common?
• What is graffiti? Define its variations and main styles. Why do some people call it art?
• The primary definition of friendship. Why do some people have internal interconnection?
• What is online dating?
• What is rudeness: examples of the rude behavior people face every day.
• How do some people define the term home?
• Who is an unsuccessful person? Do they really exist or this is just our autosuggestion?
• How to become a good person: the key traits of good people.
• How does science influence our life?
• What is a successful career for the majority of people?

Browse good argumentative essay topics  we prepared for our users. You can choose something interesting for your essay writing.

Choose one of these definition essay topics for college and complete this writing task without extra efforts.

• What is project management? Create a complete explanation of this term.
• Excellent shopping experience for various people: what does this mean?
• American Dream explanation: the evolution of this term, historical facts that explain its core characteristics.
• The meaning of marriage in different cultures.
• What does respect mean for people, how can you show that you respect someone?
• How can you see that the person is a hero and what personal characteristics prove that someone is a hero?
• What is depression? What facts about this term should you know?
• Modern technologies for education. How do they improve students’ knowledge?
• Successful career.
• Basic components that determine this term for people in various countries.
• Time management in modern life. What does it mean for the majority of people?

These definition argument essay topics are related to various aspects and explain multiple spheres of our life.

• Reformation of the modern school system: the primary elements of such reorganization.
• Technology and education: the significant role of the innovations and new styles in the school system.
• Emails, chats, cell phones instead of face-to-face communication: is it good for society?
• The role of immigration in humans’ history.
• World peace: what factors may help to establish it? (Consult: World peace essay .)
• What is the cultural heritage? Why is it important for different generations and various countries of the world no matter how developed the country is?
• Pollution and health: are these terms correlated?
• What is recycling, and how people can improve this process?
• The influence of social media on children and adults. Why do some of them face some issues while using these online resources?
• What is nanotechnology? How to use it in the future? Base your article on trusted sources.

If you need to explain several terms or concepts in your definition paper, you may consider extended definition essay topics from our list.

• Who is a team player, and how to identify this person among your colleagues?
• How to distinguish the moral act? The significant characteristics of this term.
• How to save privacy in the modern world when almost every action is controlled by different institutions and governments?
• Optimism and pessimism. What is the difference? Why do some people prefer to brighten up some life situations?
• What is the leadership? How to become a leader in modern society?
• How to be a good parent; what skills should you develop in your children?
• Various addictions that people may face. Why does it happen?
• Capitalism and communism definition: the core difference between these terms? What services do they provide for society?
• What is laziness? Why are some people lazy?
• What is a religion? Its influence in different countries.

If you need to see some examples for better understanding or inspiration, check the sample we have prepared for you.

Categorizing data based on particular properties has never been easy for an average student. Unless a student is doing well in statistics, he or she will not find it difficult to conduct research, analyze data, and break down the information into several categories. Other students keep wondering how...

Everything in this world is interconnected. New toys make kids happy, while stressful situations make them sad. To properly understand the matter of a cause and effect essay, students should pay attention to the way things relate to each other. This article will explain the most crucial details of h...

If you are reading this article, you need to write an informative essay. You might have written it before or this might be your first informative paper. The point is that you are looking for some tips and guides on how to write a really good informative essay.That is for sure! Because you want a hig...

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Common Writing Assignments

9 The Extended Definition Essay

The extended definition essay presents a detailed account of a single term or concept that is central to the content of the course for which the essay is written. What is cryptocurrency? What is a black hole? What is an algorithm? What is symbolism? What is deoxyribonucleic acid? What is National Socialism? Every subject has its own special vocabulary, and teachers will often assign an essay requiring students to present a detailed definition of a key term.

Read carefully this extended definition of feminism.

Example: On Feminism

The word “feminism” describes a popular movement for social justice, based on the premise that women have been and continue to be systemically oppressed by men who do not want to share the greater social, political, and economic power they have historically possessed. But the definition of feminism extends beyond raising the status of one gender; feminism recognizes that equal standards for all people regardless of gender will benefit society as a whole (Montgomery). In this respect, feminism can be interpreted as synonymous with egalitarianism.

Feminist scholars divide the movement into three phases or “Waves.”  First-wave feminism emerged in the early twentieth century in the form of a fight for the rights to vote, to own property, and to qualify for work in fields historically reserved for men. Second-wave feminism emerged in the 1960s as baby boomers entered university and demanded admission to programs that traditionally favoured men, such as engineering, medicine, and forestry, as well as “equal pay for work of equal value” (Montgomery).  Third-wave or post-feminism is the movement’s twenty-first century incarnation, devoted essentially to ending all forms of gender discrimination. Some even argue that a fourth wave has recently emerged, one that is concerned with the portrayal of women in social media.

While there is no clear consensus as to when first-wave feminism began, most accept that it emerged as industrialization progressed in the nineteenth century. Martha Lear coined the term in 1968, though the first wave focused on what we now consider basic issues of inequality (“What Was”). One of the earliest feminists was Mary Wollstonecraft, who mostly wrote in the late eighteenth century advocating that societies, and individuals specifically, should have rights that the state provides. Most other philosophers and writers of the time ignored women and Wollstonecraft was among the first to call for gender equality. After the American Civil War, Elizabeth Stanton and Susan Anthony rallied support for what they saw as one of the first great obstacles to greater freedom: the right to vote. Others, such as Barbara Leigh Smith, saw employment and education for women as critical areas to focus on.

Throughout the nineteenth century, Biblical interpretation of women’s role in the house and family prevented their ability to advance feminist ideals. To counteract the power of the church’s sex-based hierarchy, Stanton produced an influential work called The Woman’s Bible , in which she argued for equality using biblical references. This helped to provide religious justification, at least for some, for emerging feminism in the period. Furthermore, the National Woman Suffrage Association became a prominent organization, and in 1869, John Allen Campbell, the governor of Wyoming, became the first governor to grant women the right to vote (“What Was”). And when women replaced men in factories during the First World War, many realized that women did have equal skills to men. In Canada, women won the right to vote in most provinces during the war. In 1921, Agnes Macphail became the first woman in Canada elected to Parliament.

In the US, women had to wait a bit longer. Feminist organizations lobbied indefatigably and eventually convinced Congress that women should have the right to vote. Finally, in 1920, women won the right to vote across the United States. While the process itself was contentious, featuring hunger strikes and even mob violence, the gradual acceptance of women as voters can be considered the culminating success of first-wave feminism.

“The Progressive Era” took place in the 1930s; women’s social and political activism grew, and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt advocated for the appointment of women to positions within the administration. Her cause was further advanced during the Second World War when, again, women had to take over the work enlisted men were forced to abandon. After the war, however, North America saw a new emphasis on domesticity. When the soldiers returned, women were almost uniformly fired and forced back into their duties of domestic chores and child-raising (Bisignani). Second-wave feminism was a reaction to this post-war obsession with the ideal of the contented housewife and suburban domesticity, a lifestyle that often isolated women and severely limited their choices and opportunities.

Feminism’s second wave truly began in the early 1960s and focused not just on legal barriers to civil equality but also examined social inequalities. Second-wave feminists sought to change discriminatory policies on sexuality and sexual identity; marriage and child-rearing; workplace environment; reproductive rights; and violence against women. They formed local, regional, and federal government groups on behalf of women, resulting in human rights and women’s equality becoming a growing part of the North American political agenda. Finally, they created new, more positive images of women in both pop culture and the media to fight the negative stereotypes commonly in circulation, primarily that of the “happy housewife.”

The second wave of feminism included many landmark moments. In the 1960s, many government health agencies approved the oral contraceptive pill, and in 1963, the Equal Pay Act was passed in the US. In 1968, Coretta Scott King assumed leadership of the African-American civil rights movement and expanded the platform to include women’s rights. This led to Shirley Chisholm becoming the first African-American woman elected to Congress. In 1972, the passage of Title IX ensured equal funding for women’s opportunities in education, and the first women’s studies program in the US opened at San Diego State University. Perhaps the greatest achievement of the second wave came in 1973, when the Roe v. Wade case resulted in women’s access to safe and legal abortion (Bisignani).

Third-wave feminism began in the 1990s and still exists today (Demarco). There are many different outlets and angles of feminism now, but the most important values of the third wave include gender equality, identity, language, sex positivity, breaking the glass ceiling, body positivity, ending violence against women, fixing the media’s image of women, and environmentalism.

Third-wave feminists assert that there is no universal identity for women; women come from every religion, nationality, culture, and sexual preference. Different forms of media such as fashion magazines, newspapers, and television favour white, young, slender women, a fact which negatively impacts all women and results in body anxiety. To combat this anxiety, modern feminists have fought for body positivity, quashing the opinions of those who believe that overweight people are lazy and unhealthy. Feminists want society’s view of women to expand, to recognize, for example, that it is possible to be beautiful enough to be a model, but also smart enough to be an astronaut or a CEO.  But considering that, in 2017, only 18 out of 500 Fortune CEOs and 22 out of 197 global heads of state were women, it is clear that third-wave feminism has not yet removed the glass ceiling (Demarco).

The emerging fourth wavers speak in terms of “intersectionality,” whereby women’s oppression can only fully be understood in the context of marginalization of other groups, who are victims of racism, ageism, classism, and homophobia (Demarco). Among the third wave’s bequests is the importance of inclusion; in the fourth wave, the internet takes inclusion further by levelling hierarchies. The appeal of the fourth wave is that there is a place in it for everyone. The academic and theoretical apparatus are now well-honed and ready to support new broad-based activism in the home, in the workplace, on the streets, and online.

No one is sure how feminism will progress from here. The movement has always included many political, social and intellectual ideologies, each with its own tensions, points and counterpoints. But the fact that each wave has been chaotic, multi-valanced, and disconcerted is cause for optimism; it is a sign that the movement continues to thrive.

Works Cited

Bisignani, Dana. “ Feminism’s Second Wave .” The Gender Press , 27 Jan. 2015, https://genderpressing.wordpress.com/2015/01/27/feminisms-second-wave-2/. Accessed 25 March 2019.

Demarco, April. “ What Is Third Wave Feminist Movement? ” Viva Media , 17 March 2018, https://viva.media/what-is-third-wave-feminist-movement.  Accessed 26 March 2019.

Montgomery, Landon. “ The True Definition Of Feminism .” The Odyssey , 8 March 2016, https://www.theodysseyonline.com/the-true-definition-of-feminism. Accessed 27 March 2019.

“ What Was the First Wave Feminist Movement? ” Daily History , 19 Jan. 2019, https://dailyhistory.org/What_was_the_First_Wave_Feminist_Movement%3F. Accessed 28 March 2019.

On Feminism

Study Questions

Respond to these questions in writing, in small group discussion, or both.

• “On Feminism” is an extended definition essay, but it has qualities of what other rhetorical modes explained in this chapter?
• What are the main differences between first- and second-wave feminism?
• What are the main differences between third- and fourth-wave feminism?
• Respond to the conclusions the author offers in her final paragraph. Do you agree with what she writes?
• In academic writing assignments, paragraphs should be unified, coherent, and well-developed. Analyze two body paragraphs from this essay, commenting on the qualities of effective paragraphs they illustrate.

Writing Assignment

Write an extended definition of approximately 750 words on one of the following terms: Marxism, irony (in literature), recession (in economics), pentathlon (as Olympic sport), dressage, algorithm, neutral zone trap, cryptocurrency. You may also select your own topic or one provided by your teacher.

Composition and Literature Copyright © 2019 by James Sexton and Derek Soles is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to Write a Definition Essay: New Guide with Samples

Have you ever found it difficult to explain certain words or ideas? That's because understanding them isn't always easy. To avoid confusion, it's important to really understand the words we use and be able to explain them well.

That's why teachers often assign definition essays in high school and college. But these essays aren't just about repeating dictionary definitions. They dive deep into complex terms, exploring their rich backgrounds and meanings.

In this article, our rewrite essay service will cover different types of these papers, give you practical tips for writing them, and even provide examples to simplify this journey for you!

What is a Definition Essay

A definition essay is a type of writing assignment where you explain the meaning of a specific word or concept. Instead of just giving a simple definition from the dictionary, you dive deeper into what the word really means and explore its different aspects.

For instance, if you're tasked with defining 'success,' you might discuss what success means to different people, how it can vary based on cultural or societal norms, and whether it's purely based on achievements or encompasses personal fulfillment as well.

The purpose of writing definition essays in school is multifaceted. Firstly, it helps you refine your understanding of language by encouraging you to analyze words more critically. It also fosters your ability to think deeply and express complex ideas clearly. Additionally, it cultivates your skills in research, as you may need to gather evidence and examples to support your interpretation of the word or concept. Now that we've cleared the definition essay meaning, let's explain its common types in detail.

Definition Essay Examples

Here's a definition essay example from our custom essay service to help you understand what a good paper looks like. Take a look at how it's structured and formatted if you want to use it as a reference for your own work. And if you're interested, you can always buy essay cheap and get high-quality paper from our platform anytime.

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Commonly Used Definition Essay Types

When choosing an intriguing term with a rich historical background for your definition essay, it's essential to carefully consider your options and determine the most effective approach. Here are some common types, as suggested by our dissertation writing help :

• Analysis : Break down the topic into its constituent parts and define each part separately.
• Classification : Determine the categories under which the topic can be classified.
• Comparison : Highlight the uniqueness of the topic by comparing and contrasting it with more common subjects.
• Details : Identify the key traits and distinctive qualities that best encapsulate the central idea of your essay.
• Negation : Clarify what your topic is, not to narrow down its definition.
• Origins and Causes : Explore the historical origins and background of the concept, examining where it first appeared and any relevant historical details.
• Results, Effects, and Uses : Discuss the consequences, effects, and practical applications of the subject matter.

How to Write a Definition Essay

Just like with any writing, a definition essay structure involves an introduction, body, and conclusion. But what makes it interesting is what you explore in the body paragraphs.

For example, you could organize your definition essay outline by discussing the term from various angles. Start with a personal anecdote or story that illustrates the term in action. Then, provide a definition from a reputable source like a textbook or scholarly article. Next, consider interviewing people from different backgrounds to get their perspectives on the term. You could also analyze how the term has evolved over time, looking at historical examples or cultural shifts. Finally, offer your own interpretation of the term, drawing on your own experiences and insights.

For a more in-depth guide on writing a definition essay, let's explore the following sections provided by our experienced research paper writer .

Definition Essay Introduction

In the beginning stages of a definition essay, your reader gets their first taste of what your topic entails. It's crucial that this introduction is both informative and captivating, setting the stage for the rest of your essay. Here's what you need to include:

• Start with something attention-grabbing, like a thought-provoking question or an interesting fact.
• Provide a brief overview of the topic and why it's important to define it.
• Clearly state the term you're defining and your interpretation of it.

Definition Essay Body Paragraphs

In your essay, break down the phrase into its different parts, look at it from various angles, and then provide a relevant explanation. Depending on what your assignment calls for, you might need more than three paragraphs. Feel free to mix up the order or add sections depending on how complex the term is. Here are some ideas for what you can include:

• Start by talking about where the term came from and how it has changed over time. Understanding its origins can give insight into its meaning and significance.
• Look up the official definition of the term and compare it to your own understanding. This can help clarify any differences and give a broader perspective.
• Share your own thoughts and interpretation of the term, using examples or stories to illustrate your point. Your personal experiences can add depth and context to your analysis.
• Find a definition or explanation from an expert or scholar in the field and discuss how it aligns or differs with your own perspective. This can provide credibility and further insight into the term.
• Explore how the term is used in popular culture and what it reveals about societal values and beliefs. This can shed light on how the term is understood and interpreted in different contexts.

Definition Essay Conclusion

In the concluding paragraph, you should tie everything together neatly. Here's how you can structure your conclusion:

• Remind the reader of your main points and why the definition of the term is important.
• Highlight how having a clear understanding of the term can influence our thoughts and actions. This is where you show the broader significance of your analysis.
• Encourage your audience to apply the term accurately in their own discussions and advocate for precision in defining terms within their communities. This empowers readers to take action based on what they've learned.

Tips for Definition Essay Writing Process

Now that we're nearing the end, you might have already grasped how to write a definition essay. However, if you still feel like you're threading a needle while wearing mittens, fear not! Our essay writer has laid out some nifty guidelines to help you ace this challenge:

• Choose a term with depth, something that's not ordinary but has a rich backstory and multiple meanings. Think of it like picking a word that's like a Russian nesting doll – there's plenty to explore.
• Use vivid language to paint a picture that engages the senses. For instance, when talking about 'love,' describe the warmth of a hug, the sweetness of Valentine's chocolates, or the sound of laughter with a partner. It helps your readers feel like they're right there with you.
• Explore both the positive and negative associations of your term. Words aren't simple; they come with different meanings. For example, 'power' can mean strength and influence but can also be linked to negative things like abuse and control.
• Use real-life examples to make your points clear in your definition essay. Whether you're talking about successful people from different fields or sharing stories that illustrate 'love,' concrete examples help readers understand.
• Be creative with your approach. Use metaphors, illustrations, or humor to keep things interesting. Remember, it's your essay – make it come alive!

Final Words

As we wrap up, we trust you've grasped the ins and outs of how to write a definition essay and feel inspired to tackle your own. Nobody wants to be left scratching their head over complex topics, right? So why not leverage our academic writing assistance to your advantage? Whether you need help brainstorming extended topics, crafting a sharp analytical piece, or any other form of writing, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to confusion and ignorance – Order essay and let us guide you toward clarity and knowledge.

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is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Definition Essay: The Complete Guide with Essay Topics and Examples

Writing essays is an integral part of your school and college life, and you can do nothing about it. You may address a custom paper writing service and get help from professionals in writing. The other way is to try it yourself. You’ll want to make the process of writing as simple as possible. You might think that growing into a better writer is something impossible: You either have your natural writing talent or are just unable to write well, and there’s no other way. But it’s not that definitive. Writing is like cooking. Nobody expects you to bake a perfect cake if you do not know the recipe and have no previous practice. It’s a skill you have to develop, just like writing. In this post, we will learn how to write a good definition essay and make it as easy as it can be.

What is a Definition Essay?

A definition essay is a special type of essays where you have to put a definition in an essay for a chosen word. The definition must be well researched and supported by evidence. This might also be an explanation of what a certain term means. Some terms have literal, definite meanings, like table, pencil, or chair. Some of them are abstract, like love, success, and truth, and their meaning depends on a person’s point of view.

You can write a Definition Essay for a class or just try writing it to improve your English skills, turning it into a kind of a language challenge.

How to Start a Definition Essay

Before you write a definition essay, you should arrange your work and plan your reasoning. First, make a clear picture in your head of what you are going to write about. This is a crucial part of writing which can actually take more time than the creation of the text itself.

There are some ways to ensure a better understanding of what you can include in your text. For those who love the information to be presented vividly, graphical means are perfect. The writer can arrange the concepts they may want to insert in a mindmap, diagram, tree, or whatsoever.

You can visually represent the idea, the argumentation, and the outcomes of your exploration. Besides, you may also picture here the workflow of the essay. If you have a notion of what to write and how to do it, you are halfway to getting a powerful definition essay as a result.

In addition to developing the conception, figure out what else you need. Prepare the dictionaries to check the formal meaning of your term. Printed dictionaries may not be easily available. In case they are not, make a list of online resources with the links. The dictionaries, whether printed or online, may be explanatory, etymological, or demonstrate word usage and compatibility. Even if you don’t use this information directly, it may suggest you some interesting ideas and associations.

Think of the people whose advice or opinion may be valuable for your essay. You will ask them how they understand the term you’re writing about. So try to plan an interview with people of different positions, ages, and world-view. Their interpretation might become a real punchline for your article. Generally, the more diverse the information you collect, the more capacious your text.

How to write a Definition Essay? Step by Step Guide

Pick a Word

Choosing a concept or idea is the main point in writing a definition essay. Choose a word that describes the concept or idea, for example, “Love”, “Hero”, “Truth”, “Hate”, etc. Make sure you completely understand the term you choose. Check with a dictionary, but do not copy the definition from it. Explain the term under discussion in your own words. If your concepts are fairly vague, you can seek out your own definition based on experience and then find sources to support your definitions.

Stay Away From Specific Things and Objects

Try not to choose such objects as “pillow”, “shelf”, or “cup” because it can make the writing even harder. Professional writers know this hint, as it’s just impossible to extend a definition and write a lot about specific objects. Besides, your essay will seem superficial and not shrewd enough.

Choose a Word That You Know

Pick a word that you are familiar with and picture it to yourself on a basic level. This way, it will be much easier to write. For instance, you can choose the word “honor” because you know what that means, you have something to say about it, you know how it feels, and you can apply it to your life.

Try to Pick a Word That Has More Than One Meaning

It would be better if you chose a word that has several meanings, especially if this word would mean different things to different people. In this case, you will have more to write about. You’ll be able to include your personal understanding as well as interpretations of other people. For instance, you can pick the word “love” since you know that there are a lot of different meanings to this word, and each person understands and experiences it in their own unique way.

Find the Word In the Dictionary

Every word has its formal meaning, which you can find in the dictionary. Get to know it. Take a closer look at the structure of the definition.

Study the Origin of the Word

Research the word in encyclopedias, find out where it came from, and study any theories and ideas about this word. Also, if you pick a word from the law field, for example, examine this word in law encyclopedias.

You can find a lot of information about words nowadays, all you need is an Internet connection. There are many resources where professional writers write essays for money . Such websites contain a lot of scholarly or academic works, blog posts, essays, and articles. They can also include a definition of your term. Moreover, there are many videos made by smart people who have already deeply researched many words and are now sharing their knowledge.

Ask Your Friends and Family About the Word

It is important to get your own perspective on the word. For that, you can talk to your friends and family and ask them something like “what this word means to you”, “what it is you first think about when you hear this word,” or “what you feel when you hear this word” and so on. Record all the answers and then use them as your sources.

Come up With Your Own Definition

Write down your definition of the word using the data from your research and experiences. For better clarification, you may want to use visuals. Explore the resources that can help with powerpoint presentation or stock up with relevant pictures that illustrate your concept.

Definition Essay Outline

The essay outline should briefly summarize the content of your essay. Definition essay structure organizes the text in an easy-to-understand and coherent manner. Writing a short draft is very effective, and some teachers even require students to submit drafts to make sure that they have written the essay themselves. Definition essay outline usually consists of a traditional intro, body paragraphs, and conclusion format. Here is a basic sample of how to do this:

Introduction

In the introduction, you demonstrate to your readers what this paper is going to be about. In the definition essay, the main goal of the introduction is to provide your readers with two definitions – “standard” one and thesis one. The standard definition is the one you find in a dictionary. The thesis definition is a bit different from the dictionary one, so it is important to give your readers a starting point in regards to the term in order to make everything clear.

Thesis Statement

The thesis statement in the definition essay is a combination of what this term actually means and your personal understanding. Do not write too much in this section, though. Save some info for the body paragraphs. Also, do not use phrases like “is where” and “is when” when describing the word. In general, try to stay away from passive phrases involving the word “is”.

Body Paragraphs

This is the largest part of your essay. Here you have to define the core parts of the term and put them into organized sections. Use the data from your research, such as the history of the word and its variations, and break it down into parts.

Traditionally, in the concluding section you have to sum up the main points of your reasoning but in different words. The ending of an academic definition essay should be interesting and deep. Show how this term impacts your life and finish by giving your reader a sense of purpose.

Finished papers

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Definition Essay Format

Formatting is often crucial for a successful text. If you’re not sure how to arrange it, it’s always a good idea to check tips on how to format an essay properly on special platforms with expert information.

• Attention-catcher
• Briefly tell about the term you are going to talk about
• Thesis statement

Body paragraphs

• Body Paragraph 1: History and Origin of the Word.
• Body Paragraph 2: Complete dictionary explanation and use of the Word.
• Body Paragraph 3: Personal definition created from your experience.
• Restate the thesis statement in different words
• Summarize the main key pieces of evidence
• Final closing sentence

Words to Use for a Definition Essay

When creating a definition essay, you should follow the general rules of writing an expository essay. The basic pieces like the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion are always the same across all essay types. The special pieces include key components which are peculiar to the definition essay. These are, for example, words that are most often used or are recommended in a definition essay.

Some good words for a definition essay comprise the following words and phrases:

• What … means
• Connotation
• Extended definition

These are the examples of words you will hardly avoid when preparing a definition essay. They are most often integral to the topic, but this does not mean you should use them all. You can, of course, arrange sentences and your ideas differently and with other means. The words above and the concepts they denote are core for definition essays. Moreover, when people search for a term definition, they may try to look for a relevant essay by the keywords. So these words may help them find your essay by these keywords and phrases. They are desired but not obligatory.

A really outstanding text should contain the right language also in other parts. The further words and phrases may be helpful and make your text sound academic:

“in other words”, “to put it another way”, “moreover”, “likewise”, “what’s more”, “as well as”, “not to mention”, “on the other hand”, “however”, “by contrast”, “in view of”, “nevertheless”, “to give an illustration”, “notably”, “above all”, “in conclusion”.

Definition Essay Topics

Good definition essay topics.

• What is Love?
• What is Wisdom?
• Define What Makes a “Good” Friend?
• Define Success
• Define “Beauty”
• Talk about Solitude
• What Smart Means to You?
• What does it mean to be a Good Person?
• What makes a Good Leadership?
• What Makes a Great Friend?
• What Scholar Means to You?
• What is Loneliness?

Definition Essay Examples

Sometimes people just cannot start writing their essay without looking at a complete example of somebody else, seeing the structure and how it is written. Yes, sometimes students need some extra inspiration to start their own work and that is fine. Thankfully, nowadays you can easily find many sample papers, moreover, here is one for you right now. Edusson is Ready to Help with Your Assignment Submit your requirements

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How to Write a Definition Essay Without Any Help

Both at school and college you can be assigned a paper that is aimed to define some term. For example, in psychology courses students frequently write papers on definition essay topics like “depression” or “Oedipus complex.” Even in a physics course your tutor may ask you to write a definition essay about certain terms like “universe” or “holography physics.”

If you want some practical tips on how to write a definition essay, you’ll find them in this guide. Definition essays can be written on a certain topic or term that you choose by yourself. If the tutor gave you a topic, there’s nowhere to go – you need to try to reflect all of your knowledge and worldview! It seems that when you have multiple choices, the writing process is simpler since you are free to decide which term is more familiar and interesting to you.

In the body paragraph of a definition paper you are supposed to present the history of the term, examples, and your own definition which would express your personal point of view on this term on the basis of your experience. You can give examples that will illustratively display your point of view in a definition essay. Struggling with historical analysis? Our expert writers can help – request ‘ write my history essay ‘ and get impressive results.

What Is a Definition Essay?

A definition essay explores the history of a certain term and the author’s personal understanding of the particular concept or term. Also the definition essay should consider what experiences and research the author has developed.

A definition essay is more than a simple definition in the dictionary. Also it may be called an extended definition essay. It is the profound research of a particular term and cannot be defined in one sentence. This kind of essay requires the students to pick a term that cannot be similarly described by several persons. For example, people are more likely to agree with a definition of “cat,” while the term “happiness” will be defined in different ways.

If you wonder how to write a definition essay, follow the steps and tips in this article which will help you brainstorm, draft, revise, and proofread your definition paper. Also check our sample definition essay paper with comments.

Steps to Write a Definition Essay

Before writing a definition essay:

Step 1. Read the tutor’s requirements . If you have quickly looked through the assignment, there is a possibility that you have missed some important points or misunderstood something. Highlight the key words: your assignment can tell you not only to define some term, but also to discuss it, give examples, or explain how it works. It might also help you to look through definition essay examples before you start writing.

Step 2. Select a topic. Find out the term that you are interested in defining. You can make a list of words that you would be glad to explore. Search for popular words in news, words related to art or science, words that make you laugh, and words that are unused. To be sure that you will reach the word count in your definition essay, and pick complex, abstract terms or words that are closely connected with personal experience.

Don’t pick simple nouns or simple words. Picking a topic is a very important step for the definition essay, as if you choose the term “door” you won’t be able to write a 500-word definition essay on it because there is not much depth to get into. But if you choose something like “creating,” there will be a great field to make research about it.

A great option is to choose words that have various definitions in different languages. One word can be perceived differently in some countries. For example, the term “time” has different attitudes among people in Arab countries and USA or Japan. Cultural attitudes differ throughout history. Note: If the assignment asks you to define a certain term, skip this step.

Step 3. Write a prompt about the topic. Start with writing everything that you know about the topic in your own words. Also state a simple definition of the term and an example that you already know, or read the first definition that you find in a dictionary. Avoid copying the definition – you need to write it in your own words. Also set the limit of this definition, as for certain terms like “depression” you can write for a long time. This exercise will be a foundation for your further writing and will show what you already know about the term from personal and academic aspects.

Step 4. Collect information and structure it. There is an advised sequence of actions to find relevant information about the term. Look into a general dictionary and list all literal and associated meanings of the term. Then proceed to more specific dictionaries related to certain disciplines (like music, medicine, physics, philosophy, etc.). Check reference books to find quotations or definitions made by famous people. And lastly, search the web to find the word’s etymology, ask experts, and find where the term is frequently used (book titles, ads, organizations, etc.). To organize your research, make a custom table where you will be able to insert information that you have found and identify details that you need or want to add.

Step 5. Make an outline. A definition essay outline follows the standard 5-paragraph essay outlines. Make a plan for the body paragraph listing support points in the order of importance, starting with the most powerful definition at the beginning of your paper. Then structure the outline depending on the complexity of the term and conduct a more profound research.

For example, if you want to define the term “compassion” your outline may look like this:

1. Introduction 1.1. Attention grabber 1.2. Quick overview of the term 1.3. Thesis statement 2. Body paragraph I 2.1. A historical overview about the term and its origins 3. Body paragraph II 3.1. List of explanations from various dictionaries with examples 4. Body paragraph III 4.1. Definition of term based on personal experience with examples 5. Conclusion 5.1. Summary of the main points 5.2. Description of how the term has influenced your life

Step 6. Review some samples. Before you begin to write, read several good extended definition essay examples. One piece you can find in this article after these steps.

While writing a definition essay:

Step 1. Write the introduction. Start with introducing the term and getting the reader’s attention with a hook. For example, it may be an anecdote or quotation. You can start with stating some interesting information from the history of this term or usage. Also it is necessary to state the main dictionary definition in your introduction so readers can understand the standard meaning from the very beginning. It is an important step when you learn how to write a definition essay. As the common definition will differ from those that you are going to state in the body paragraph, this will underline the fact that the term is multi-dimensional. Look over some ideas of definition essay introduction examples around the internet to get inspired.

Step 2. Write the thesis statement. As a part of the introduction, you should write a definition essay thesis statement that will shortly describe the term that you will be demonstrating in the body paragraph. Your thesis statement should not only point out the term you are going to define, but also the idea that you are going to prove.

There are several patterns that you can use as a basis for your thesis statement:

• Introductory phrase – Term – Class – Definition
• Term – Means – Common definition (association)

For example, your thesis according to the first pattern may look like this: “Let me see if I can explain the original meaning of yoga as a great exercise for mind and body.” Note: Don’t try to include too much information in the thesis statement. Limit it to no more than one or two sentences.

Step 3. Write the body paragraph. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that will be a short overview of the paragraph. In these paragraphs you need to tell the readers what the term means. You can start with telling the history of the term, how it was used, and how its meaning has changed through the years. Then continue with stating the dictionary’s definitions and other detailed explanations of each example.

There are several approaches to define the term:

• Explain the function of the term: how it works, how it does something, etc.
• Tell how it’s structured: how it is put together or organized.
• Analyze the term. Compare and contrast this definition to others with a similar meaning. Add examples to illustrate the difference. Underline the distinctive features of your term in comparison to other terms.
• Clarify the term that can be misunderstood. State the distinctive characteristics and what the term doesn’t mean to be sure that the readers will understand the meaning in the right way.

Support your definitions with examples, facts, and other supporting points or details. Ask yourself: “What examples will help your friend understand the meaning of the term?” Make sure that you have used at least three examples that clearly explain every definition.

Step 4. Write the conclusion. A conclusion definition essay section is short but still important. Write several sentences that will sum up your writing and briefly restate the main points of your essay. Make an observation about the term and the supporting details that you have given in the body paragraph. Tell about what place the term has in your life. Do you use this term in every day life? Does it have a special meaning to you? Has your own definition changed after the research? End the essay with a phrase that will create a sense of purpose or connect the reader with the term.

After writing a definition essay:

Now that you know how to write a definition essay, look at some points you need to consider after writing it.

Step 1. Revise your first draft. Ask someone to read your text and evaluate its readability. Make sure that you have clearly stated all definitions and it tells the readers precisely what they should know in order to fully understand the term. Make sure that each paragraph has the topic sentence and that it offers a particular amount of information and is closed with a small conclusion and transitional phrase.

Step 2. Edit the complete essay. As soon as you finish your second draft, check the words, sentences, correctness of spelling, grammar, punctuation, and mechanics. Make sure that your text will be clear to readers, and sentences are complete and readable. Along with the spellchecker on your computer, use an available online plagiarism checker to make sure that your work is original enough to reach the needed originality score.

Step 3. Send the essay to the tutor. As soon as you will feel that your essay is totally complete and you have no doubts about its clarity, submit it to your tutor.

Checklist for a Definition Essay

• Make sure that the chosen term is multi-dimensional and also specific enough.
• Check if the opening clearly identifies the definition.
• Look through examples that you have used in the text and remove all that don’t meet the meaning of the term.
• Make sure that you have applied the qualities of brief and extended definitions.
• Examine whether you have developed definitions that are well reasoned, researched, and supported with examples.
• Look through the text and check the structure. Have you stated a clear thesis statement? Does you introduction have a hook? Does your conclusion restate the thesis?
• Check the text for transitional phrases and add them if necessary.
• Evaluate the quality of your ideas and voice. Make sure that you have properly revised and edited your paper.

Definition Essay Sample

Sometimes it’s better to see it once than read about it several times. It’s much easier to understand how the essay should look when you have a sample at hand. We have asked one of our professional writers to make comments on an extended definition example, so you can better understand the structure and the overall tone that is usually used in writing a definition essay. Students frequently make the same mistakes in definition essays and reading this sample can help you avoid mistakes. Please, take into consideration the comments on the example of definition paragraph when writing your own essay. Check our full collection of examples .

Click the images to see their full size.

Tips for a Definition Essay

• Avoid such phrases like: According to Webster’s Dictionary…
• Don’t choose an obvious and simple term that doesn’t require profound research.
• Don’t repeat one definition more than once in the text.
• Use a prewriting technique when you choose the topic, as this will be the basis of your essay.
• Conduct some historical research. As people have used language for many centuries, there is a big chance that you will find some information about the history of the term.
• Don’t use passive voice in the thesis statement.
• Add explanations and comments on examples in the body paragraph. Add more examples to help your readers understand the meaning of the term.
• Don’t forget to add transitions between the paragraphs to connect your ideas.
• Keep your voice engaging, informative, and instructive while writing your definition essay.
• Think about your readers and revise all the parts of your text so it will be clear and interesting to them.
• Ask another person to look through your finished paper and make comments.

All essays require time and passion, so make sure that you have both. We know that its hard to find passion for writing, especially when you are not a skilled writer – that’s why we have created this guide. Our team knows that the best way to start writing the essay is to follow each step of the step-by-step guide. Just start doing it and you will not even notice how you have written it. All you need is to leave enough time before the deadline to be able to complete the essay.

Read our tips and sample paper to have a better understanding of how a definition essay should be written. We wish you strength and inspiration! In case you don’t have them, you can ask Payforwriting writers to help you. They are available 24/7.

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11.2: Basic Structure

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The Thesis Statement

The definition thesis statement should not only provide the parameters of your proposed definition, but it should also establish why there is a need for establishing a shared understanding of your idea. 109

Example \(\PageIndex{1}\):

• While many people may believe that being educated requires formal schooling with degrees and certificates to prove achievement, being educated is also the result of learning independent of formal education: books read, journeys taken, and self-reflection.
• Although family once meant having two parents and siblings living in a house with a white picket fence, families today consist of myriad variations of this arrangement as long as love and support of one another are the critical boundaries.

Unlike other essay modes, the definition essay is organized around the devices that you choose to use to develop your extended definition. For example, a writer could use a process approach. In another approach, a writer could use illustration or narration to demonstrate the real life contexts where the word is used. Cause and effect could be used to clarify what happens when the word is understood in your terms and contexts; similarly, the causes that lead to misinterpretation could be considered and demonstrated. Finally, using a comparison/contrast approach is a common section of most definition essays; sometimes this approach is called negation—with the author emphasizing what the word clearly does not mean, when it does not apply.

Introduction

One strategy for starting a definition essay is to mention circulating and conflicting definitions for the word or concept to be clarified in the essay. Another possibility it to take a historical approach. How has the word or concept been viewed in the past? If the focus of your essay will be arguing for a new slang word, then use examples of other slang words have been introduced in previous generations. As a last resort, you can start with a short dictionary definition of the word, but this approach can be viewed as monotonous and boring to some audiences. Regardless of the approach that you choose, remember that it needs to lead to the thesis statement which is the clear assertion of how you want the word or concept to be understood.

To effectively write a conclusion for an extended definition essay, think about the impacts that adopting your established definition will have for the audience in situational contexts. Reiterate why your assertion is more apt that other perspectives, and be sure to summarize the distinguishing traits used to establish your definition as they were presented in the introduction.

Definition Essay

Definition Essay Outline

Definition Essay Outline - Format & Guide

Published on: Oct 21, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Essay writing is a mandatory part of your academics that can not be ignored. It is a writing type that analyzes a student’s understanding of the topic and their evaluation of the information.

A  definition essay  is one of the types of essays that is often assigned to high school and college students. This essay type defines and explains a topic in its literal terms and its common meanings.

Unlike argumentative essays, definition essays are considered to be less demanding. However, being a formal piece of writing, this assignment asks for effort and reliable information.

Writing a good essay requires proper formatting and structure to ensure maximum readership and understandability of the content. The writer structures the text using an outline.

Read this blog to learn how a definition essay outline is constructed. And how helpful it is for the writer as well as the readers.

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What is a Definition Essay

The meaning of the definition essay is evident from the term itself. This is an essay type that provides a complete definition of the subject or object to the audience.

The definition essay highly depends on the topic you choose. Selecting a word or topic that only revolves around facts and statements can not be considered a good topic. When drafting this essay type, choose terms that have more than one meaning and have different aspects to discuss

A strong definition essay defines a notion or a term. Apart from presenting a concrete definition, this assignment type solves an issue or a controversy. If there are several definitions of the same notion.

A major difference between writing a definition and a definition essay on a particular term. An essay provides a full context of the usage of the term.

What is a Definition Essay Outline?

Similar to other assignments like a term paper, research paper, and compare and contrast essay, etc. A definition essay also needs an outline. The plan will highlight the essential elements of the essay that needs an explanation of the content.

To properly present a definition and explanation of the topic, the writer needs structured content. Without a structured presentation, the audience will not be able to understand your point.

Like other essay types, a definition essay requires an outline to maintain a logical flow in the content. This essay uses the traditional outline of 5 paragraphs that arranges all the information in a readable text.

Definition Essay Outline Format

The outline for your definition essay has three major sections in which all the gathered information is divided. These sections include an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Below is the basic format in which a definition essay is written:

• Official or dictionary definition
• An interesting statement or personal information
• Thesis statement
• Topic sentence
• Supporting information
• Transition to the next idea/ conclusion
• Restated thesis statement
• Summary of the major points
• Final words

Below are some outline templates that will help in your writing phase.

Definition Essay Outline Template (PDF)

Extended Definition Essay Outline (PDF)

How to Write a Definition Essay Outline?

Just as writing an essay involves a whole process, creating an outline requires preparation as well. To successfully develop a definition essay outline, follow the step given below.

Before you start working on your assignment, it is mandatory to read and understand the provided instructions. With every assignment, some guidelines present the basic requirements to be fulfilled in the document.

From the formatting style to the word limit of the essay, everything is mentioned in the instructions. Understand them to make your definition essay impressive.

Once you have understood the guidelines, pick a theme for your definition essay. Brainstorm ideas for terms and words that you think are interesting to talk about and share with the audience.

The topic you choose must be vast enough to be discussed in various aspects. Concepts such as sky, an apple, a pencil, or a dog will not make good choices for your topics. This is because these themes can not be elaborated with the writer’s understanding.

So the best thing to do is to avoid choosing closed topics.

After deciding on the topic, start your research. For your definition essay, you will be collecting different definitions and meanings of the notion. Through credible resources and dictionaries, analyze which academic definition can be made part of the essay.

Moreover, if your term has various interpretations, take all into consideration and discuss it in your essay.

The gathered information needs the arrangement to make sense for the readers. Organize your raw data into an outline to form a structure. The outline of the definition essay has the following sections.

The introduction is the first part of the essay where the writer puts forward the topic for the audience. To draft an impressive and informative essay, it is important to add the core elements in your definition essay outline.

To begin with, the definition essay includes the following information:

• Conventional explanation or definition of the term
• Overview, origin, or history of the term
• A thesis statement

The introductory paragraph of this essay begins with the academic or the dictionary definition of the term. The writer presents a brief overview of the term where the origin and historical background are discussed.

At the end of the introductory paragraph, the thesis statement is given. A thesis statement is a primary assertion of your definition paper.

The body of the definition essay is the main part of the essay where all discussions are done. In these paragraphs, all the gathered information apart from the basic definitions are provided along with their analysis.

The body section of the definition essay consists of the following information:

• A detailed overview of the topic along with the analysis
• An explanation along with examples

According to the traditional outline, the body of the essay has three paragraphs. In each paragraph, discuss one aspect of the term along with its analysis. Evaluate it providing examples and a clearer explanation for the readers.

Use transition words to connect all the bits and pieces and gradually take your audience towards the conclusion.

The conclusion is the last section where the writer aims to tie all loose ends together. Similar to other essay types, the definition essay conclusion contains the following elements:

• The final verdict on the discussion

The concluding paragraph should be as strong as the introduction of the essay. Include the summary of the key points in this section and the thesis statement presenting how it is proved.

In the end, sum up your discussion with the closing words. Remember, a good definition essay will always leave its audience satisfied with the content. Make sure that your essay fulfilled all requirements and successfully impressed the readers.

To sum it up, writing essays can be challenging for some students. If you feel like getting help from a professional could help you save time or boost grades, we're here for you!

CollegeEssay.org provides a top essay writing service. Our writers have excellent skills and are qualified to assist you in all your assignment types.

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Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Family Relationship — Extended Definition of Family

Extended Definition of Family

• Categories: Family Relationship

About this sample

Words: 494 |

Published: Jan 31, 2024

Words: 494 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Traditional definition of family, expanding the definition of family, emotional bonds and connections, importance of family in personal development, family challenges and solutions.

• Cherlin, A. J. (2018). The deinstitutionalization of American marriage. Journal of Marriage and Family , 80(4), 796-812.
• Marsiglio, W., Day, R. D., & Lamb, M. E. (2000). Exploring fatherhood diversity. New York: Oxford University Press.
• Umberson, D., & Montez, J. K. (2010). Social relationships and health: A flashpoint for health policy. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 51(Suppl), S54-S66.

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