Here's a breakdown of its etymology:
* "definīre" literally means "to set bounds to", "to limit", or "to determine". This root meaning reflects the core concept of definition: establishing clear boundaries and meaning.
* "definītiō" is the noun form of "definīre", referring to the act of defining or the resulting statement of meaning.
Throughout history, the concept of definition has evolved:
* Ancient Greek philosophy focused on defining essential characteristics of things, seeking to understand the essence of concepts.
* Medieval philosophy incorporated logic and rhetoric into defining terms, aiming for clarity and precision.
* Modern times have seen various approaches to definition, including formal definitions in logic and dictionaries, and informal, nuanced understandings in everyday language.
In conclusion:
The word "definition" traces back to the Latin roots of "setting bounds" and "determining" meaning, reflecting the core act of establishing clarity and precision in understanding concepts.