Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

Admin Published On Jun 9, 2023 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023 Essay

Among the various types of essays, the method of composing a definition essay is rather simpler. Just like you focus on learning the definitions when exploring a new concept, you have to focus on applying the same approach when writing a definition essay as well.

However, it often gets challenging to write such types of essays since most beginners assume that the topic is limited to stating the meaning.

Although, you can actually explain the literal meaning and implied meaning for the particular definition essay and include examples as well.

All you have to focus on are the - What, Why, How, Who & Purpose of the Topic.

So, to get a structured guideline on writing a definition essay, read below the given suggestions -

The Ideal Steps for Writing Definition Essay

At the very beginning, let's understand how to get prepared when assigned a definition essay. For that, follow each of these steps as mentioned .

Pick a Word

Choosing the appropriate word is, of course, the first step. With a particular word, you have to break down every bit of its meaning. And for that, it's necessary that you choose a good topic.

So how can you determine what makes a good topic?

Here is an example of how you can do that - Unusually, an abstract idea that cannot be found in an English dictionary is the ideal subject for a definition essay.

But ensure that the term you have picked must be fully understood by you.

Avoid Choosing Objects as Your Topic

Since this type of essay refers to discussing a word that doesn't signify, you will choose generic words, which are objects. In fact, it can be challenging to write about objects like "table," "glass," or "door."

If you choose such words as your topic, you won't have much to discuss apart from explaining its utilities.

Instead, choose words like 'beauty', 'honesty', 'power' etc..

Choose a Word with Several Meanings

Look for a word or phrase that might mean different things to different individuals, one that has more than one meaning.

This will allow you to write more while incorporating your own experiences and interpreting those of others.

Moreover, having multiple meanings helps you write from different perspectives. Else, your essay might be very limited to ideas.

Verify the literal definition of it.

Once you have fixed your topic, it's necessary to have a basic idea. For that, use dictionaries and encyclopaedias to your advantage to learn the precise meaning of a word's origin and any related theories.

Additionally, you can discover helpful information online.

You can browse through numerous scholarly publications, academic essays, blogs, educational films, etc., to address different usage of the word.

Look for Alternative Viewpoints

After you have taken the ideas from the text, it's time to see how the word passes from person to person.

For example, you can ask your friends and relatives what a term means to them, what comes to mind when they hear it, how they feel when they hear it, and other things.

All of these will help you through light on the variations with the same word in different relations as well.

Establish a definition

The next stage is to create your own definition based on the information.

So, take into account the following steps when writing your version of the definition -

Function

Write about the term describing what it does and how it works.

Structure

Describe a phrase using its organisation and structure.

Analysis

To bring a critical aspect of the term, you must analyse the term as well.

You can compare other terms in the same category as the one you are writing about. The distinctions are crucial since they set your phrase apart from the competition.

Negation

Here, you must clarify what are the opposite meanings of the term. You must also explain any misconception if related to the word.

Examples

To help your reader better comprehend the phrase, include examples in the form of facts, anecdotes, pictures, and stories.

Example of a Definition Essay

Here is an example of a definition essay for the word 'love'. The writer here begins the topic with a question and later explains one by one the history, symbols of love and so on.

This is an appropriate example of how you must discuss the deduction essay with different purposes of the word.

A Basic Outline of Definition Essay

Writing a definition essay requires not more than three sections, and here are they -

Introduction to a Definition Essay

You should define the phrase according to your own standards, which may differ from the dictionary's interpretation.

This enables readers to comprehend what you are saying in detail and provides context for why particular terminology exists in the way they do in modern culture.

However, you must begin the essay with a fascinating fact connected to the subject being explained.

For instance, you may narrate a captivating narrative while using an anecdotal hook line to make sure the reader will be engaged by your writing.

This thorough article on hook examples will teach you the technique for starting your essay with attention-grabbing lines.

A standard thesis statement does not appear in a definition essay. Instead, you must provide your own description of the phrase without giving away the entire definition.

Body of the Definition Essay

Here, you will provide a detailed explanation of the word's definition, along with relevant details and examples. Depending on how complicated your topic is, there may be three or more body paragraphs.

Use these paragraphs to research and provide significant information about the word, including its origin, history, usage, and context.

Conclusion of the Definition Essay

The section of your essay where you summarise the whole thing is called the conclusion. At this stage, there should be no introduction of new or extra information.

Finish by sharing your last views and describing how the concept has impacted your life.

Never share a tale or experience that conflicts with what you have said in the essay.

A Few Tips for Writing a Definition Essay

Refrain from using expressions like: 'According to Oxford's Dictionary.'
In the text, avoid using the same definition more than once.
When selecting the subject, use a prewriting strategy because this will serve as the framework for your essay.
Focus on the historical events since there is a probability that you will uncover some information regarding the history of the term because the language has been used for many centuries.
The body paragraph should include clarifications and comments on the instances. To help your readers understand the meaning of the phrase, provide further examples.
Remember to provide transitions between paragraphs to tie your ideas together.
When writing your definition essay, be sure to use an interesting, educational, and enlightening voice.
Consider your audience when revising each section of your writing to make it more understandable and engaging.
Ask a friend or family member to review and comment on your completed essay.