1. Definition as "limit" or "boundary":
* "The limits of our land were defined by a river."
* "He defined his role as a leader by his actions."
This usage focuses on setting clear boundaries or outlining the scope of something.
2. Definition as "explanation":
* "I will define my purpose to you with clarity."
* "The doctor defined the patient's illness with precision."
Here, "definition" emphasizes the process of explaining something thoroughly and making it clear.
3. Definition as "character":
* "He was a man of noble definition."
* "The play's characters were defined by their moral dilemmas."
This usage relates to the inherent qualities or characteristics that define a person or thing.
4. Definition as "formal statement":
* "The king issued a definition of his rights and responsibilities."
* "The council provided a definition of the law's intent."
This meaning refers to a formal, written declaration or statement outlining something.
Keep in mind:
* Elizabethan English often used more complex sentence structures and vocabulary than modern English.
* The specific meaning of "definition" would depend on the context of the sentence.
* The nuances of Elizabethan language are often subtle and require careful analysis.
If you're looking for a specific example of how "definition" was used in Elizabethan literature, please provide me with more context! I'm happy to help you understand its meaning in that specific instance.