define-v; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: state or explain the meaning

Examples:
How does the dictionary define 'sadness'?
Before I answer your question, could you define your terms a little more
Your rights and responsibilities are defined in the citizens' charter.
Your role in the project will be strictly defined.
What defines a good wine?

Mappings:
VerbNet: characterize-29.2-1-1,reflexive_appearance-48.1.2
FrameNet: Communicate_categorization
PropBank: define.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2, 3

Sense Number 2: give form, character or meaning to something

Commentary:
NOTE: Sense involves determining the essential quality of something/someone

Examples:
I'd hate to feel that I was defined by my job.
Your hairstyle doesn't have to define you.
The age we live in is defined by a deep sense of uncertainty.

Mappings:
VerbNet: NM
FrameNet: Categorization
PropBank: define.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 3: cleary show or mark a boundary/delineate/show the outline

Commentary:
NOTE: Sense involves allowing something to be shown clearly, especially shape or outline

Examples:
The outline of the castle on the hill was clearly defined against the evening sky.
The camera could define the smallest object.
The tree was clearly defined by the light.

Mappings:
VerbNet: NM
FrameNet: NM
PropBank: define.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4