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Definition Essay Writing

Definition Essay Topics

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

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A Closer Look at Definition Essay

A definition essay is a type of academic writing that defines or explains a word, term, concept, or idea. There are some words that have literal meanings and they are very easy to explain i.e. pencil, table, chair, etc.

There are some terms that have abstract meanings and are difficult to explain i.e. love, care, emotion, and feelings.

This type of essay includes both the official meanings of the word and the writer's interpretation. This interpretation is supported by examples.

A good definition essay will not exceed one page in length, and it should include 250-500 words. The goal is for the student to expand on a word’s usage. This can be done by explaining other possible concepts of what they are analyzing - this makes them more interesting!

Definition Essay Topics Ideas

When you search over the internet you’ll get plenty of definition essay topics. Having a lot of ideas in hand can make the topic selection process difficult. That is why we have compiled a list of some effective and interesting definition essay topics.

Check out these creative definition essay topics lists below and choose the best one for your essay.

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Definition Essay Topics for High School Students

Identity in the Digital Age
Empathy in a Diverse World
Global Citizenship
Intellectual Curiosity
Civic Engagement
Environmental Stewardship
Ethical Leadership
Cultural Fluency
Mindfulness in Education
Critical Thinking

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

What is the meaning of optimism?
What does sincerity mean?
Love at first sight
The true meaning of respect
The actual definition of family
Define Buddhism
Who is a strong leader?
What is the actual meaning of ambitions?
Define racism in your own words
How will you define success?

Definition Essay Topic on Mass Media

The evolution of 'news' in the digital age: redefining journalism.
The true meaning of 'media bias': navigating perspectives.
The influence of 'social media': defining modern connectivity.
The power of 'advertising': shaping perceptions and desires.
Reality TV: a new definition of 'entertainment'?
The impact of 'fake news': deconstructing information manipulation.
The definition of 'clickbait': balancing engagement and misleading content.
Streaming services: redefining 'television' in the 21st century.
The role of 'podcasts' in modern communication: beyond radio.
Citizen journalism: broadening the scope of 'media.

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Awkward Dancing
Chaos Theory
Social Media Stalking
Mismatched Socks
Infinite Scroll
Bad Hair Days
Pajama Fashion
Fast Food Gourmet
Napping Olympics
Pencil Tossing

Creative Definition Essay Topics

The Essence of Wanderlust: Defining the Spirit of Adventure
Epic Fails: The Art and Science of Learning from Mistakes
Digital Detox: Navigating Life in the Age of Screens
Ambition Redefined: Pursuing Dreams in the Real World
Friendship in the Digital Age: The Modern Definition of 'BFF'
Mindfulness Unveiled: Embracing the Present Moment
Nostalgia: Journeying into the Past Through Rose-Tinted Glasses
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Life's Unexpected Twists
The Art of Simplicity: Finding Beauty in the Basics
Silence Speaks: Exploring the Power of Quiet Moments

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Privacy
Humanity

Good Definition Essay Topics

Describe laziness
Define attitude
What is magnetism?
How do you define attraction?
Define human rights
What is the meaning of responsibilities?
Time management
Define health
Define class
What is the meaning of wealth

Unique Definition Essay Topics

The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures.
The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe.
Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort.
The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film.
The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
Decoding 'meme culture': more than just humor.
The complexity of 'cool': an ever-changing definition.
The 'hacktivist' movement: merging hacking and activism.
Retro: nostalgia or a timeless definition?
The art of 'hygge': coziness in a single word.

One Word Definition Essay Topics:

Sustainability

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Classification and Definition Essay Topics

Types of friendship: defining bonds beyond acquaintanceship.
Genres of literature: from mystery to science fiction.
Learning styles: understanding varied approaches to education.
Personality types: navigating the landscape of traits.
Cuisine categories: exploring the world through food.
Forms of government: beyond democracy and authoritarianism.
Music genres: from classical to experimental.
Social media users: the diverse landscape of online presence.
Educational philosophies: from Montessori to Waldorf.
The world of gaming: classifying video game genres.

Simple Definition Essay Topics:

Friendship: what does it truly mean to be a friend?
Happiness: beyond smiles and laughter.
Home: defining the heart of comfort.
Success: navigating achievements and fulfillment.
Courage: facing fear with grace.
Kindness: the power of small acts.
Respect: cultivating dignity in interactions.
Family: beyond blood ties.
Trust: the foundation of genuine connections.
Wisdom: gained through experience and reflection.

Extended Definition Essay Topics

What does the term freedom mean?
Define ownership in your own words
What is the meaning of the term character?
The current American dream
The evolution of the definitions
Define experience in your own words
What is common sense?
Explore the term science
What role does a degree play in a student’s life?
Time: The Elusive Concept That Shapes Our Lives

Random Definition Essay Topics

Small business
Masculinity
Artificial Intelligence
Individuality

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Democracy vs. Dictatorship
Meaning of two sides of a coin
Classical music vs. Pop music
Friendship vs. Love
The Fluid Concept of 'Justice'
Equality vs. Equity
The Definition of 'Art'
Security in the 21st Century
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Society
The Definition of 'Heroism'

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Defining Patriotism: Where Loyalty Ends and Extremism Begins.
Freedom of Speech: Navigating the Thin Line Between Expression and Harm.
The Slippery Slope of Political Correctness: Balancing Respect and Censorship.
The Fluid Boundaries of 'Cultural Appropriation' in Art and Fashion.
Gender Identity: Beyond Binary – The Controversy of Pronouns.
The Definition of 'Addiction': Disease or Personal Responsibility?
Euthanasia: Dignity in Death or Slippery Moral Slope?
The Controversy of 'Trigger Warnings': Protecting or Censoring?
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Era: Information or Manipulation?
The Line Between 'National Security' and Invasion of Privacy.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

The success of your essay majorly depends on the topic. A good topic is a key element in writing a good essay. So when you choose a topic for your essay, keep the following things in mind.

Choose a topic that has a broad meaning rather than a literal meaning.
Make sure you understand the topic completely.
Make sure that the subject should be interesting for you.
The topic should be interesting for the reader as well.
Choose a word, idea or term that is fresh for the audience.
Avoid picking any common topic that the reader is already familiar with.
Choose an idea that connects with your target audience.

Choosing a controversial topic is quite easier than choosing a common definition essay topic. As you have a few options to choose from and a little space to write about it. But if you keep the instructions given above in mind, you can easily choose an amazing topic for your essay.

Tips on How to Write a Definition Essay

Here are some tips that you should learn before writing your essay. These steps will help you structure your essay in a proper format.

Pick an interesting and unique paper topic.
Research the topic thoroughly and collect detailed information about it.
Create a definition essay outline , it will help you follow the essay pattern. Without an outline, it is really difficult to craft a good essay according to the format.
Tell the exact meaning of your subject in the introduction part. Present the thesis statement that provides a detailed meaning of the essay topic. Your introduction should be able to grab the reader’s attention and make them read the complete essay.
In the body paragraphs, provide evidence that supports your personal and dictionary definitions. Elaborate on the topic with the help of your personal experience examples.
In the conclusion section, just sum up all the explanations and descriptions. This is akin to closing remarks, so do not provide a fresh idea over here. Provide your close remarks and finish the essay.
After writing the essay, spare some time for the proofreading and editing process. Check your essay for spelling and grammatical mistakes. Remove all the errors from the essay to make it flawless.

Definition Essay Structure

Your final definition paper may have a structure similar to this:

A copy-pasted or paraphrased definition from the dictionary.
Writer’s personal understanding and interpretation of the word.
An example of the usage of the word in a real context.
Supporting evidence justifying the writer’s interpretation of the word.
Conclusion summarizing each point briefly.

In conclusion, our exploration into the world of definition essays has been a journey of discovery. We've dived into the meanings of words, navigated through controversies, and embraced creativity. Words are more than just letters; they have the power to shape thoughts and connect us in unique ways.

This essay writing guide will help you a lot in writing your essay. Make sure you follow the procedure so that you don’t make any mistakes.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Best Definition Essay Topics Guide for an A+ Grade

Updated 19 Jun 2024

Knowing the rules of a definition essay writing is one of the best skills that can be useful for expressing your own idea regarding a particular topic, concept, term or issue and developing research skills that are highly appreciated in any US college (ex. Harvard) or any higher educational establishment. Still, a few questions may occur when looking at general requirements for writing an essay of good quality.

For instance, how to write a definition essay and structure it , how do you choose definition essay topics? Which topics are appropriate examples and which are better to avoid? How to create a thesis for such essay? Or, how do we create the best topic that appropriately defines what we are about to write? What sources can be used while writing this kind of essay? All these questions are quite important for any definitive text and every student should be aware of the answers. If such essay is a new genre for you or you just want to refresh your memory on the topics, this article will cover all the necessary details.

So What Is a Definition Essay?

The answer is quite easy. A definition essay is a paper type in which you focus on explaining and breaking down the meaning of one word. It is an in-depth analysis aimed at discussing and digging up a true understanding based on your own ideas. But, there is a catch: any idea you develop must be backed up by credible and verified evidence.

Seems to be a tough task to choose topics. Why so?

There exist words that are spelled or pronounced similarly but have different meanings. For a student who does not investigate properly, it is very easy to get confused and to mix up definitions or explanations. Interpreting a word in a write-up requires a lot of research, study, and reading. Therefore, when you think of ways to generate exciting and eye-catching definition extended essays topics , here are things you should find out:

Origin of the word: You should be able to search for information regarding its origin — is it French, American, Gaelic? How it was coined, who used it first, where was it used, etc.
Context: Context of usage could have changed over time. Prepare tangible resources that prove or dispute that fact.
Previous versions: Some words are updated versions of what they were in the past. Try to find these versions if possible in order to track alteration of the word.
Usage: How do we use this word today? Have there been any controversial uses for it over time?

Always keep in mind that all these details will be arranged from your personal view, i.e. you have to ‘own’ the definition, quote it in your own words.

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Guide to 250 Definition Essay Topics to Choose From

Now, when you know everything about a definition essay, go through a compiled list of 100 definition paper topics to choose for your essay.

Definition Argument Essay Topics

Defining "Success" in Modern Society
The True Meaning of "Courage"
What Constitutes "Fairness" in the Workplace?
The Definition of "Privacy" in the Digital Age
Understanding "Equality" in a Diverse Society
The Essence of "Leadership" in Various Contexts
Health: A Comprehensive Definition Beyond Physical Well-being
The Complexities of Defining "Art"
Intelligence: Nature vs. Nurture
The Definition of "Addiction" in a World of Technology and Substances
Happiness: Subjective Well-being or Objective Fulfillment?
What Does It Mean to Be "Educated"?
The True Meaning of "Freedom of Speech"
Defining "Justice" in the Legal System
Love: A Universal Language or Cultural Construct?
The Definition of "Power" in Social and Political Contexts
What Constitutes "Beauty" in Society Today?
The Meaning of "Family" in Contemporary Society
Sustainability: More Than Just an Environmental Term
Understanding "Respect" Across Cultures

Definition Essay Topics for College

The Evolution of "College" as an Institution
Defining "Creativity" in the Academic World
Globalization: Impacts and Implications
The Meaning of "Cultural Appropriation" in Art and Society
Democracy: Ideals vs. Reality
The Definition of "Mental Health" in College Campuses
Professionalism: What Does It Mean for Today's Graduates?
Understanding "Ethics" in Various Disciplines
Innovation: Beyond Invention and Creativity
Social Media: Shaping Identities and Societies
The Concept of "Work-Life Balance" for Students
Multiculturalism in Education
Defining "Academic Freedom"
Entrepreneurship: A Career Path or Mindset?
Volunteerism: The Value Beyond Service
Peer Pressure in College Life
The Role of "Curiosity" in Learning
Stress: Understanding Its Impact on Students
Teamwork in Academic and Professional Settings
The Meaning of "Independence" for College Students

Technology Topics for Definition Essay

Defining "Artificial Intelligence" and Its Scope
Blockchain: Beyond Cryptocurrency
The True Meaning of "Digital Privacy"
Virtual Reality: A New Dimension of Experience
Understanding "Cybersecurity" in a Connected World
Social Networking: Redefining Human Connections
Innovation in the Tech Industry
The Definition of "Smart Technology" in Everyday Life
Big Data: Implications and Ethics
Cloud Computing: Transforming Data Management
Internet of Things: A Networked Future
Augmented Reality: Blending Worlds
Machine Learning: The Path to AI
Digital Divide: Access and Inequality
E-commerce: Redefining Retail
Tech Startups: The New Age of Entrepreneurship
Digital Nomadism: Work and Lifestyle Redefined
Gaming: Entertainment or Culture?
Mobile Technology: The Revolution in Our Pockets
Telemedicine: The Future of Healthcare

Happiness Definition Paper Ideas

Happiness: A State of Mind or Circumstance?
The Role of "Gratitude" in Achieving Happiness
Contentment vs. Happiness
The Impact of "Altruism" on Personal Happiness
Mindfulness: A Path to Happiness?
The Pursuit of Happiness in Different Cultures
Success and Its Relation to Happiness
Social Connections: Their Importance in Feeling Happy
The Science Behind "Happiness"
Self-Acceptance and Its Role in Happiness
Work-Life Balance and Its Effect on Happiness
Financial Security vs. Wealth: What Brings Happiness?
The Influence of "Physical Health" on Happiness
Personal Growth and Its Contribution to Happiness
Simplicity as a Key to Happiness
The Role of "Nature" in Enhancing Happiness
Creativity and Its Impact on Happiness
Spirituality and Happiness: Exploring the Connection
Freedom of Choice and Its Importance to Happiness
Generosity: Does Giving Lead to Happiness?

'Freedom' as a Topic

The Many Facets of "Freedom" in Society
Freedom of Speech: Rights and Responsibilities
Economic Freedom and Its Impact on Societies
The Role of "Freedom of the Press" in Democracy
Religious Freedom: A Fundamental Human Right
Freedom of Expression in Art and Culture
The Concept of "Personal Freedom"
Political Freedom: The Foundation of Democratic Societies
Freedom from Want: Addressing Basic Human Needs
Academic Freedom and Its Importance in Education
Freedom of Movement: A Global Perspective
Digital Freedom: Privacy and Expression Online
Freedom from Fear: Security and Human Rights
The Balance Between "Freedom" and "Equality"
Intellectual Freedom and Its Role in Innovation
Freedom of Association: Building Communities and Networks
Financial Freedom: More Than Just Wealth
Freedom to Choose: Decision-Making and Autonomy
The Historical Struggle for "Freedom"
Freedom in the Age of Globalization

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Defining "Resilience" in the Face of Adversity
The True Essence of "Empathy" in Human Relationships
Sustainability: A Comprehensive Look Beyond the Environment
Integrity: The Bedrock of Character and Trust
Innovation: More Than Just Invention
The Multifaceted Concept of "Justice" in Society
Wisdom vs. Intelligence: Unpacking the Differences
Freedom: A Philosophical and Practical Exploration
Courage: Beyond Physical Bravery
Honor: Its Role and Relevance in Modern Society
Passion: The Driving Force Behind Creativity and Success
Leadership: A Dynamic and Evolving Concept
Happiness: Pursuit and Perception
Beauty: Subjective Ideals and Societal Standards
Equality: Challenges and Achievements in the Modern World
Addiction: Understanding Its Complexity Beyond Substance Abuse
Privacy: Redefining in the Digital Age
Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being
Culture: The Tapestry of Human Expression and Belief
Success: Personal Fulfillment vs. Societal Recognition

Great Topics on 'Family'

Family: Evolution of Its Definition in a Modern Context
The Role of "Tradition" in Family Dynamics
Single Parenthood: Challenges and Triumphs
Blended Families: Navigating Complexity with Unity
Generational Gap: Bridging Differences within Families
Family Roles: Shifting Perspectives and Expectations
Adoption: Expanding the Concept of Family
Family Support: Its Impact on Individual Resilience
Inheritance: Beyond Material Assets
Family Businesses: Mixing Kinship with Commerce
Domestic Responsibilities: Gender Roles and Equality
Elder Care: The Family's Role in Aging Societies
Family Traditions: Their Importance in Cultural Identity
Parenting Styles: Influence on Child Development
Family Conflict: Resolution and Growth
Family Secrets: The Impact on Trust and Unity
Nuclear Family vs. "Extended Family": Benefits and Challenges
Family Values: Guiding Principles for Behavior and Beliefs
Family Reunions: Celebrating Connections and Heritage
Family Planning: Choices and Implications for Future Generations

Social Topics for a Definition Essay

Social Justice: Unpacking Its Meaning and Importance
Community: The Fabric of Social Connectivity
Identity: Formation in the Social Context
Social Norms: Their Influence on Behavior and Beliefs
Inequality: Addressing Disparities in Society
Social Media: Redefining Human Interaction
Citizenship: Rights, Responsibilities, and Identity
Social Change: Mechanisms and Movements
Prejudice: Understanding Its Roots and Remedies
Globalization: Its Impact on Social Structures
Social Welfare: Systems for Support and Sustainability
Activism: The Drive for Social Reform
Social Anxiety: Navigating the Challenges of Interaction
Cultural Assimilation vs. "Cultural Preservation"
Social Exclusion: Causes and Consequences
Urbanization: Its Effects on Society and Environment
Social Mobility: Realities and Barriers
Ethnicity: Identity and Influence in Society
Social Responsibility: Individual and Collective Roles
Class Consciousness: Awareness and Action

What is Love - Eternal Topic

Love: Beyond Romantic Notions
Unconditional Love: Its Existence and Expression
Platonic Love: The Value of Non-Romantic Relationships
Self-Love: The Foundation of Well-being
Parental Love: Guiding and Letting Go
Love at First Sight: Myth or Reality?
Enduring Love: Secrets to Long-lasting Relationships
Love Languages: Expressing and Receiving Affection
Lost Love: Coping with Heartbreak and Moving On
Love vs. Lust: Distinguishing Deep Connection from Desire
Tough Love: Its Role in Personal Growth
Sacrificial Love: The Limits and Rewards
Rekindled Love: Rediscovering Connections
Unrequited Love: Navigating One-sided Affections
Evolving Love: Adapting to Changes in Relationships
Love and Marriage: Cultural and Personal Perspectives
Love Across Distances: Maintaining Connections
Forbidden Love: Societal Boundaries and Personal Choices
Spiritual Love: Connecting on a Deeper Level
Love and Forgiveness: Healing and Reconciliation

History Definition Essay Topics List

Revolution: Catalysts and Consequences
Empire: Rise, Dominion, and Decline
Renaissance: A Rebirth of Culture and Knowledge
Nationalism: Its Impact on World History
Colonialism: Legacy and Liberation
Industrial Revolution: Transforming Societies and Economies
Cold War: Ideologies and Interventions
Democracy: Evolution of Governance
Treaties: Shaping Borders and Relations
Exploration: Discoveries and Encounters
Inventions: Milestones in Human Progress
Civil Rights: Struggles and Achievements
Feudalism: Social Hierarchy and Land Ownership
Genocide: Understanding and Preventing Atrocities
Migration: Movements and Motivations
Enlightenment: Reason and Reform
Reformation: Religious Conflict and Change
Totalitarianism: Control and Resistance
Independence: Nations Forging Their Own Paths
Cultural Revolution: Upheaval and Transformation

Definition Essay Ideas for Business

Defining "Entrepreneurship": Beyond Starting a Business
Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices
Market Disruption: Changing the Competitive Landscape
Brand Loyalty: The Emotional Connection with Customers
Innovation in Business: More Than Just New Products
Leadership vs. "Management": Distinct Roles in Business Success
Sustainability in Business: Economic, Environmental, and Social Considerations
Networking: Building Relationships for Professional Growth
Customer Satisfaction: Key to Business Longevity
E-commerce: Revolutionizing Retail
Globalization: Impact on Local and International Businesses
Business Ethics: Guiding Principles in the Corporate World
Start-up Culture: Agility and Innovation in Business
Franchising: Expansion Strategy for Businesses
Outsourcing: Delegating Tasks for Efficiency and Cost-Savings
Brand Identity: Crafting a Unique Market Presence
Corporate Culture: Shaping Employee Behavior and Company Values
Digital Marketing: Engaging Customers in the Digital Age
Venture Capital: Fueling Growth in Start-ups
Business Agility: Adapting to Rapid Market Changes

Sports Definition Essay Topics

Teamwork: The Essence of Success in Team Sports
Sportsmanship: Respect and Fair Play On and Off the Field
Endurance: Physical and Mental Stamina in Sports
Coaching: Guiding Athletes Towards Excellence
Olympism: Ideals and Values of the Olympic Movement
Competitiveness: The Drive Behind Athletic Achievement
Physical Fitness: The Foundation of Athletic Performance
Talent vs. "Hard Work" in Sports Success
Injury Prevention: Safeguarding Athletes' Health
Professionalism in Sports: Beyond Amateurism
Mental Toughness: Overcoming Challenges in Sports
Fair Play: Ethical Considerations in Competitive Sports
Athletic Scholarship: Bridging Education and Sports
Sports Nutrition: Fueling Performance and Recovery
Doping: Ethical and Health Implications in Sports
Fan Culture: Community and Identity Among Sports Enthusiasts
Extreme Sports: Thrill-Seeking and Risk Management
Youth Sports: Developmental Benefits and Challenges
Sports Analytics: Data-Driven Decision Making in Sports
Legacy: Impact of Major Sporting Events on Host Communities

'Science' Topics on Any Taste

Scientific Method: The Foundation of Discovery and Innovation
Climate Change: Understanding Global Environmental Shifts
Genetics: The Blueprint of Life and Heredity
Artificial Intelligence: Redefining Human and Machine Interaction
Quantum Physics: Exploring the Subatomic World
Sustainability: Science in Service of the Environment
Biotechnology: Manipulating Biological Systems for Human Benefit
Astronomy: The Study of Celestial Objects and Phenomena
Neuroscience: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Brain
Evolution: The Process of Change in the Natural World
Renewable Energy: Sustainable Power Sources for the Future
Vaccination: Science's Answer to Infectious Diseases
Nanotechnology: Engineering on an Atomic Scale
Ecology: The Interconnectedness of Life and Environment
Robotics: The Creation and Application of Robots
Conservation Biology: Protecting Biodiversity for Future Generations
Geology: The Science of the Earth's Physical Structure
Meteorology: Predicting Weather and Understanding Climate
Chemistry: The Study of Matter and Its Transformations
Physics: The Laws Governing Matter and Energy

Definition Essay Outline — Is It Helpful?

It is impossible to start working on an essay without an outline, especially on an extended definition essay. One can easily get confused without a well-written plan with a well-thought structure of a future paper. Many US universities suggest their students outline their papers as it helps to understand details for structure — what should be in essay and what should not be there. It also helps not to lose the main thought and follow your thesis and serves as a guide.

A definitive essay outline also serves as a map of sorts because it already consists of essay parts arranged according to the order of their appearance. Have you noticed how easy it is to mess up an essay, especially a long one (let’s say, 5000 words) when you try to make some content edits? To avoid such incidents, it is recommended to complete an outline to know how paragraphs should be arranged in order to provide a smooth and consistent transition.

Structure — Identifying all Parts

An extended definition essay has a quite interesting structure. While it might not look very different from commonly used structure of, an argument-rooted essay, for example, there still exist some peculiarities that set this essay type apart from others. Here is an outline template that is in line with the requirements of most US universities:

Introduction: It is your chance to set the stage for rest of the write-up. The idea here is to inform readers of what to expect. Introduce the word, term you are about to define and provide a dictionary definition of it. Keep your introduction paragraph simple, and do not disclose too much detail here.
Thesis statement: In your thesis complete your own extended definition of a word or term based on your research and understanding of it.
Main body: Remember that whole load of research you did when preparing? The body is where you arrange all that data — origin, context, previous versions, usage. Using paragraphs for each aspect, identify core parts in true meaning and provide an explanation where needed. Make your work good enough to meet requirements for an interesting read, as well as an academic work.
Conclusion: For conclusion, general idea is, to sum up, what has been discussed in this paper — different explanations, description and others. This is akin to closing remarks and is never a good point to start a fresh set of arguments — keep that in mind.

Each of these outline parts plays an important role in making your definition essay look presentable, easy to read and follow. Completing an outline and good research will help to reach these goals.

Read also: 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

Definition Essay Examples

Below are two definition essay examples. These would serve as a factual guide on how to begin writing and ways to keep information relevant. They would help you understand all do’s and don’ts of this essay types and help you to work towards your perfect essay.

If you're looking for more examples, you can also find definition essay examples online to expand your knowledge and enhance your writing skills.

SAMPLE 1 “The Statue of Liberty During revolution years the need came up for America to choose a physical symbol for what founding fathers stood…” Notice how writer used a hook at the beginning instead of providing a boring definition at once: “The Statue of Liberty can be defined as…” Key rule in writing an extended definition essay: never start with the main idea. Look for suitable ways to create an inversion, i.e. create a cascade of paragraphs that will gradually lead to term being explained.

SAMPLE 2 “Ohm’s Law In the years that followed the discovery of electricity, many human attempts were made to understand the effects that emulated together to achieve the fluorescence produced by…” Another key rule is: When dealing with science, keep it scientific. Do not deviate to use layman terms, especially if this is meant to be purely academic paper. Let your etymology rhyme with context on which this essay is formed. Here is third rule that would help you especially in definition argument topics is avoiding what is referred to as ‘mindless lifting’ — direct copying of an explanation from the source. If a certain analogy was used to make an explanation, look for more persuasive analogy that could achieve the same effect. Avoid direct copying from outside source in order not be accused of plagiarism.

FOUND THE TOPIC BUT NO TIME TO WRITE?

Writing an essay requires choosing a well-constructed topic. But it becomes easier to handle with good information and the right guide. At essay writing service EduBirdie comes a lot of work and time, as well as, one of our main objectives is to guide students with their academic tasks that appear to be complex, like one we discussed in this article.

If you still have difficulties writing a definition essay, our writers are ready to help you with the ideas for a topic, outline or thesis writing help. We are available 24/7 and gladly offer you a helping hand. Still, not sure if you need it? Message us to learn more about what writers can do!

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Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

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Definition Essay Topics - Best Picks for You

In this article, you'll embark on a learning journey to grasp the ins and outs of what makes a definition essay unique. We'll guide you through the art of crafting these essays, providing you with the essential skills and techniques to express your ideas effectively. But that's not all – our platform, where you have the option to buy essay online , will also open the door to a world of inspiration with a plethora of engaging topic suggestions and enlightening example essays. With this resource at your fingertips, you're poised to become a confident and skilled at writing a definition essay in no time!

What is Definition Essay

Definition essay is a type of academic writing that aims to explain the meaning of a specific term, concept, or idea in detail.

At first glance, a definition essay might seem like the most straightforward form of writing. After all, it's right there in the name, isn't it? You define something, and you're done! Well, not quite. While the basic premise is to provide a clear and concise explanation of a particular term or concept, the true artistry of your definition custom essays lies in its ability to transcend mere dictionary definitions. It's a form of linguistic gymnastics, a quest to unlock the multifaceted nature of words and ideas.

Consider this: Is a tree merely a collection of roots, branches, leaves, and bark? Or is it something more profound? Exploring a topic for a definition essay ventures beyond the ordinary to dissect these elements, exploring their significance, historical context, and even their emotional resonance. It delves into the nuances, exposing the rich tapestry of meanings that a single word can carry.

One of the most alluring aspects of the definition essay topics is its dance with ambiguity. Words are not always neatly packaged entities; they often morph with time and context. What was once a straightforward term can evolve into a complex, multidimensional concept. This essay form allows writers to revel in this ambiguity, to question and examine the ever-shifting boundaries of language.

When generating captivating definition research paper topics , these concise points can serve as a starting point:

Cultural Shifts : Investigate how societal changes reshape a term's meaning.
Controversial Concepts : Explore terms sparking debates with multiple interpretations.
Untranslatable Words : Delve into culturally unique, untranslatable terms.
Morphing in the Digital Age : Examine how digital advancements redefine terminology.
Philosophical Abstractions : Analyze complex philosophical concepts.
Cultural Context : Study how terms vary across cultures and regions.
Concepts in Literature and Art : Explore how artists redefine terms.

Key Aspects of Good Definition Essay Topics

Choosing the right definition essay topic can be as daunting as searching for buried treasure. However, when it comes to writing a definition essay, the quest for the perfect topic becomes an art in itself. So, what are the key aspects of a captivating definition essay topic? Let's embark on this intellectual adventure and unearth the gems hidden within these topics.

Complexity and Depth : Much like when learning how to write a hook for an essay , look for terms that aren't just superficial labels but concepts with depth, history, and room for interpretation.
Controversy and Debate : Seek out topics that spark debate and controversy. These are the battlefields of ideas, where multiple perspectives collide.
Relevance and Significance : The best topics are those that resonate with the times. A topic that speaks to the human experience, both past and present, is worth its weight in gold.
Personal Connection : A great definition essay topic often has a personal resonance. This personal connection can infuse your essay with passion and authenticity, making it more engaging for your readers.
Room for Exploration : A good topic should provide ample room for exploration. It shouldn't be so narrow that you run out of things to say after a few paragraphs, nor so broad that it becomes overwhelming.
Intellectual Challenge : Embrace the challenge. A good topic should make you think, question, and dig deeper. It should push you to research, analyze, and perhaps even challenge your own assumptions.
Uniqueness : Finally, strive for uniqueness. While classic topics have their merits, exploring lesser-known terms or offering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden path can make your essay stand out.

Diving into Intriguing Definition Essay Topics

Having a captivating informative essay topics or social issues topics at your disposal is like holding the key to unlocking a world of ideas. It's your ticket to dive deep into a subject, concept, or notion and let your creativity soar. Below, you'll find an endless list of definition essay topic ideas to spark your creativity and inspire your writing journey. So, let your exploration begin!

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Having a captivating topic at your disposal is like holding the key to unlocking a world of ideas. It's your ticket to dive deep into a subject, concept, or notion and let your creativity soar. Below, you'll find an endless list of captivating topic ideas to spark your creativity and inspire your writing journey. So, let your exploration begin!

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Resilience: How do we not just overcome challenges but learn and grow from them?
Define "civilization" beyond advanced technology. Consider factors like ethics and social structures.
Happy Accidents: What makes a lucky find turn into something truly amazing?
Distinguish true innovation from mere invention. How does innovation address current needs?
How does disinformation differ from simple misinformation?
With technology getting more advanced, what does it mean to be a cyborg?
Define sustainability beyond environmentalism. How does it encompass social and economic factors?
What does it mean to be a global citizen in an interconnected world?
Define cultural appropriation with nuance. How can we appreciate cultures without disrespecting them?
In an increasingly demanding world, define a healthy work-life balance. How can we achieve it?
Nostalgia: Why do we love remembering the good old days, even if they weren't perfect?
Analyze the complexities of cancel culture. What are its potential benefits and drawbacks?
As AI continues to evolve, what would it mean for it to achieve sentience?
Define the metaverse and its potential impact on society.
Algorithmic Bias: How can we make sure computers don't treat people differently because of mistakes in their code?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Explain Procrastination: Why do we wait until the last minute to do things, even with snacks involved?
Being a Grown-Up: How to pay bills, do laundry, and pretend you know how to use a dishwasher.
The "I Woke Up Like This" Look: The truth behind messy buns and "no makeup" makeup.
Mom-isms: A Dictionary: Understanding what your mom really means when she says things like "clean your room" or "we need to talk."
The 5-Second Rule: Why dropped food is totally okay to eat if you grab it fast enough.
Explanation behind the Resting Grumpy Face phenomenon.
Define the awkward phase of the Friend Zone with tips for maybe getting out or staying happy where you are.
The Quiet Game: Explain how to be okay with those uncomfortable silences in conversation.
Mansplaining: A funny look at explaining things to someone who already knows.
Define social media with hilarious ups and downs of trying to show a perfect online life, even when things are messy behind the scenes.
Netflix Binge Olympics: Training tips and snack strategies for the intense world of competitive binge-watching.
The Bermuda Triangle of Laundry: Where mismatched socks and single earrings go to vanish forever.
Why are afternoon naps awesome, even if you wake up with sleep marks?
How buying things (even when you don't need them) can make you feel happy.
Why talking to yourself isn't crazy; it's just a way to solve problems.

Society Definition Essay Topics

Teamplayers vs. Lone Wolves: How do people work together in a group versus doing things on their own?
Following the Rules (or Not): What are rules in society for, and why do people sometimes break them?
From Strangers to Friends: How do people become friends and build communities?
Sharing is Caring (Usually): Why do we share things with others, and what happens when we don't?
Fashion Follies: How do trends in clothing and style reflect society as a whole?
Fads vs. Traditions: What's the difference between something everyone does for a short time and something people do for generations?
Helping Hands: Why do people volunteer and help others in need?
Celebrating Differences: How can people from different backgrounds come together and learn from each other?
The Power of Words: How can what we say affect others and society as a whole?
Social Media Circles: How do online platforms connect people and shape how we see the world?
City Life vs. Country Living: What are the pros and cons of living in a crowded city versus a quiet rural area?
The News Feed: How do news and information travel through society, and how does it affect us?
From Small Towns to Global Stage: How are local communities connected to the wider world?
Changing with the Times: How do societies adapt and change over time?
The Future We Build: How can we work together to create a better society for everyone?

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Community: A group of people living in the same area who share things and help each other.
Culture: The beliefs, customs, and arts of a particular group of people.
Social Class: A group of people with similar wealth, income, and education.
Family: A group of people related to each other, like parents and children.
Social Mobility: The ability to move up or down in social class.
Diversity: Having many different types of people, ideas, and cultures.
Social Media: Websites and apps used to connect with people and share information.
Technology: The tools and machines that people use to make life easier.
Education: The process of learning knowledge and skills.
Law: The rules that a society creates to keep order.
Social Norms: The unwritten rules about how people behave in a society.
Government: The group of people who make and enforce laws.
Socialization: The process of learning the ways of a society.
Tradition: The customs and beliefs that are passed down from generation to generation.
Social Change: The way that a society changes over time.

Common Definition Essay Topics

What are the different forms of love, and how do they shape our lives?
How do we build trust in relationships, and why is it so important?
What defines a true friend, and how do friendships impact us?
Why is honesty essential in all aspects of life?
How does respect foster positive connections with others?
What does happiness mean to you? How can we achieve a sense of fulfillment?
What are the different types of fear, and how can we overcome them?
What is kindness, and how does it make the world a better place?
How does loyalty strengthen bonds in our relationships?
What is gratitude, and how can we cultivate it in our daily lives?
How does patience help us navigate challenges in life?
What does hard work mean, and how does dedication lead to success?
Why is perseverance important for overcoming obstacles?
How does life experience shape wisdom? What does it mean to be wise?
What is peace, and how can we find calmness in our everyday lives?

History Definition Essay Topics

What is the Renaissance, and Why is it Important?
Describe the Industrial Revolution and its impact on society.
Who Were the Ancient Egyptians?
What is Feudalism?
Discuss the importance of the Silk Road in connecting different cultures.
What Led to the Fall of the Roman Empire?
Explain how democracy began in ancient Greece and its evolution.
Define colonialism and discuss its effects on colonized countries.
Narrate the main causes of World War I and its consequences.
What Was the American Civil Rights Movement?
The Meaning of the Cold War
Define imperialism and provide examples of its practice in history.
Discuss how Enlightenment ideas have shaped contemporary society.
What Triggered the French Revolution?
The Significance of the Magna Carta

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Do we have free will, or are we just along for the ride?
Is there more than meets the eye? Discuss the different ideas about reality.
If there's a good God, why do bad things happen? Tackle the problem of reconciling suffering with a benevolent higher power.
Can we ever be absolutely sure about anything?
What is consciousness, and how does the mind relate to the brain?
Is there a point to life? What makes our existence meaningful?
Ethics: What makes something right or wrong?
What is Existentialism, and how do we create meaning in a world without inherent purpose?
What does it mean to be fair?
Who are we, really? The Mystery of the Self.
Is there more to the universe than we can see? Discuss metaphysics.
The Quest for Knowledge: How do we acquire knowledge, and what constitutes justified belief?
What is Logic? Introduces the principles of reasoned argument and their importance in sound decision-making.
Aesthetics: Is beauty in the eye of the beholder? Or is it universal?
How do we become good people? Virtue Ethics Explained.

How To Choose Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the perfect words for your paper can be a formidable task. Here's a guide to help you navigate this linguistic maze:

Embrace Complexity : Don't settle for words with a single, straightforward meaning. Opt for terms that invite you to flex your writing muscles and showcase your subject expertise.
Stir Debate : Seek words that thrive on controversy within varying contexts. A great definition essay thrives on the debates surrounding the term, so choose words that spark discussions.
Build Your Lexicon : Create a repository of potential definition essay topic ideas, especially when your instructor leaves the choice up to you. Having a list ready ensures you're never short of intriguing subjects.
Multiple Meanings : Delve into the richness of language by exploring words with multiple meanings. They offer a canvas for you to paint multifaceted portraits of ideas, pushing your writing to new heights.

Definition Essay Example

Here, we've prepared some compelling definition essay examples that illuminate the richness of language and thought, providing clarity on topics both familiar and intriguing. These definition essay topics invite you to embark on a journey of understanding, where your own words and concepts reveal their hidden depths and discover more about the human experience.

Final Words

In the realm of definition essays, the power of words to shape our understanding of the world becomes evident. Through this diverse array of topics, we've unlocked the doors to deeper comprehension and insight. So, choose your definition essay topic wisely, apply your unique perspective, and let the fascinating world of definitions broaden your horizons, one word at a time. And if you ever need a simple yet helpful guide to how to write a conclusion for an essay , we've got you covered on that too!

Unlock the Lexicon of Brilliance!

Choose your best definition essay topics today and let our word wizards conjure intellectual magic!

Daniel Parker

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

Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

14 min read

Published on: Oct 9, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

What is a Definition Essay?

Just as the name suggests, a definition essay defines and explains a term or a concept. Unlike a narrative essay, the purpose of writing this essay is only to inform the readers.

Writing this essay type can be deceivingly tricky. Some terms, concepts, and objects have concrete definitions when explained. In contrast others are solely based on the writerâs understanding and point of view.

A definition essay requires a writer to use different approaches when discussing a term. These approaches are the following:

Denotation - It is when you provide a literal or academic definition of the term.
Connotation - It is when the writer provides an implied meaning or definition of the term.
Enumeration - For this approach, a list is employed to define a term or a concept.
Analogy - It is a technique in which something is defined by implementing a comparison.
Negation - It is when you define a term by stating what it is not.

A single or combination of approaches can be used in the essay.

Definition Essay Types

There are several types of definition essays that you may be asked to write, depending on the purpose and scope of the assignment.

In this section, we will discuss some of the most common types of definition essays.

Descriptive Definition Essay

This type of essay provides a detailed description of a term or concept, emphasizing its key features and characteristics.

The goal of a descriptive definition essay is to help readers understand the term or concept in a more profound way.

Stipulative Definition Essay

In a stipulative definition essay, the writer provides a unique definition of a term or concept. This type of essay is often used in academic settings to define a term in a particular field of study.

The goal of a stipulative definition essay is to provide a precise and clear definition that is specific to the context of the essay.

Analytical Definition Essay

This compare and contrast essay type involves analyzing a term or concept in-depth. Breaking it down into its component parts, and examining how they relate to each other.

The goal of an analytical definition essay is to provide a more nuanced and detailed understanding of the term or concept being discussed.

Persuasive Definition Essay

A persuasive definition essay is an argumentative essay that aims to persuade readers to accept a particular definition of a term or concept.

The writer presents their argument for the definition and uses evidence and examples to support their position.

Explanatory Definition Essay

An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay . It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader.

The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.

Extended Definition Essay

An extended definition essay goes beyond the definition of a word or concept and provides a more in-depth analysis and explanation.

The goal of an extended definition essay is to provide a comprehensive understanding of a term, concept, or idea. This includes its history, origins, and cultural significance.

How to Write a Definition Essay?

Writing a definition essay is simple if you know the correct procedure. This essay, like all the other formal pieces of documents, requires substantial planning and effective execution.

The following are the steps involved in writing a definition essay effectively:

Instead of choosing a term that has a concrete definition available, choose a word that is complicated . Complex expressions have abstract concepts that require a writer to explore deeper. Moreover, make sure that different people perceive the term selected differently.

Once you have a word to draft your definition essay for, read the dictionary. These academic definitions are important as you can use them to compare your understanding with the official concept.

Drafting a definition essay is about stating the dictionary meaning and your explanation of the concept. So the writer needs to have some information about the term.

In addition to this, when exploring the term, make sure to check the termâs origin. The history of the word can make you discuss it in a better way.

Coming up with an exciting title for your essay is important. The essay topic will be the first thing that your readers will witness, so it should be catchy.

Creatively draft an essay topic that reflects meaning. In addition to this, the usage of the term in the title should be correctly done. The readers should get an idea of what the essay is about and what to expect from the document.

Now that you have a topic in hand, it is time to gather some relevant information. A definition essay is more than a mere explanation of the term. It represents the writerâs perception of the chosen term and the topic.

So having only personal opinions will not be enough to defend your point. Deeply research and gather information by consulting credible sources.

The gathered information needs to be organized to be understandable. The raw data needs to be arranged to give a structure to the content.

Here's a generic outline for a definition essay:

Provide an that grabs the reader's attention and introduces the term or concept you will be defining.

of why this term or concept is important and relevant.
that clearly defines the term or concept and previews the main points of the essay.

, , or that will help the reader better understand the term or concept.
to clarify the scope of your definition.

or of the term or concept you are defining in detail.
to illustrate your points.

by differentiating your term or concept from similar terms or concepts.
to illustrate the differences.

of the term or concept.
between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points.

, or to support your points.

VII. Conclusion

you have defined.
that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Are you searching for an in-depth guide on crafting a well-structured definition essay?Check out this definition essay outline blog!

6. Write the First Draft

Drafting each section correctly is a daunting task. Understanding what or what not to include in these sections requires a writer to choose wisely.

The start of your essay matters a lot. If it is on point and attractive, the readers will want to read the text. As the first part of the essay is the introduction , it is considered the first impression of your essay.

To write your definition essay introduction effectively, include the following information:

Start your essay with a catchy hook statement that is related to the topic and the term chosen.
State the generally known definition of the term. If the word chosen has multiple interpretations, select the most common one.
Provide background information precisely. Determine the origin of the term and other relevant information.
Shed light on the other unconventional concepts and definitions related to the term.
Decide on the side or stance you want to pick in your essay and develop a thesis statement .

After briefly introducing the topic, fully explain the concept in the body section . Provide all the details and evidence that will support the thesis statement. To draft this section professionally, add the following information:

A detailed explanation of the history of the term.
Analysis of the dictionary meaning and usage of the term.
A comparison and reflection of personal understanding and the researched data on the concept.

Once all the details are shared, give closure to your discussion. The last paragraph of the definition essay is the conclusion . The writer provides insight into the topic as a conclusion.

The concluding paragraphs include the following material:

Summary of the important points.
Restated thesis statement.
A final verdict on the topic.

7. Proofread and Edit

Although the writing process ends with the concluding paragraph, there is an additional step. It is important to proofread the essay once you are done writing. Proofread and revise your document a couple of times to make sure everything is perfect.

Before submitting your assignment, make edits, and fix all mistakes and errors.

If you want to learn more about how to write a definition essay, here is a video guide for you!

Definition Essay Structure

The structure of a definition essay is similar to that of any other academic essay. It should consist of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

However, the focus of a definition essay is on defining and explaining a particular term or concept.

In this section, we will discuss the structure of a definition essay in detail.

Introduction

Get the idea of writing an introduction for a definition essay with this example:

"Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be a hero?"
Heroes have been celebrated in literature, mythology, and pop culture throughout history.
"In this essay, we will define the term hero, explore the key features that define heroism, and examine real-life examples of heroism in action."

Body Paragraphs

Here is an example of how to craft your definition essay body paragraph:

Heroes are individuals who demonstrate courage, selflessness, and a commitment to helping others. They often risk their own safety to protect others or achieve a noble goal.
Heroes are often confused with protagonists or role models, but they differ in that heroism involves action and sacrifice.
This could include stories of firefighters rescuing people from burning buildings, soldiers risking their lives in battle, or ordinary citizens performing acts of bravery during natural disasters.

Types of the Term/Concept

If applicable, the writer may want to include a section that discusses the different types or categories of the term or concept being defined.

This section should explain the similarities and differences between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate the points.

This section could explore the different categories of heroes, such as those who are recognized for their bravery in the face of danger, those who inspire others through their deeds, or those who make a difference in their communities through volunteering.

Examples of the Term/Concept in Action

The writer should also include real-life examples of the term or concept being defined in action.

This will help the reader better understand the term or concept in context and how it is used in everyday life.

This could include stories of individuals who risked their lives to save others, such as firefighters who rushed into the Twin Towers on 9/11 or civilians who pulled people from a burning car.
This could include stories of individuals who performed small acts of kindness, such as a stranger who paid for someone's groceries or a teacher who went above and beyond to help a struggling student.

Conclusion

This example will help you writing a conclusion fo you essay:

Heroes are defined by their courage, selflessness, and commitment to helping others. There are many different types of heroes, but they all share these key features.
Heroism is an important concept because it inspires us to be better people and reminds us of the importance of selflessness and compassion.
"In a world where it's easy to feel cynical and disillusioned, heroes remind us that there is still goodness and bravery in the world."

Definition Essay Examples

It is important to go through some examples and samples before writing an essay. This is to understand the writing process and structure of the assigned task well.

Following are some examples of definition essays to give our students a better idea of the concept.

Understanding the Definition Essay

Definition Essay Example

Definition Essay About Friendship

Definition Essay About Love

Family Definition Essay

Success Definition Essay

Beauty Definition Essay

Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the right topic is challenging for other essay types. However, picking a suitable theme for a definition essay is equally tricky yet important. Pick an interesting subject to ensure maximum readership.

If you are facing writerâs block, here is a list of some great definition essay topics for your help. Choose from the list below and draft a compelling essay.

Authenticity
Sustainability
Mindfulness

Here are some more extended definition essay topics:

Social media addiction
Ethical implications of gene editing
Personalized learning in the digital age
Ecosystem services
Cultural assimilation versus cultural preservation
Sustainable fashion
Gender equality in the workplace
Financial literacy and its impact on personal finance
Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
Welfare state and social safety nets

Need more topics? Check out this definition essay topics blog!

Definition Essay Writing Tips

Knowing the correct writing procedure is not enough if you are not aware of the essayâs small technicalities. To help students write a definition essay effortlessly, expert writers of CollegeEssay.org have gathered some simple tips.

These easy tips will make your assignment writing phase easy.

Choose an exciting yet informative topic for your essay.
When selecting the word, concept, or term for your essay, make sure you have the knowledge.
When consulting a dictionary for the definition, provide proper referencing as there are many choices available.
To make the essay informative and credible, always provide the origin and history of the term.
Highlight different meanings and interpretations of the term.
Discuss the transitions and evolution in the meaning of the term in any.
Provide your perspective and point of view on the chosen term.

Following these tips will guarantee you better grades in your academics.

By following the step-by-step approach explained in this guide, you will acquire the skills to craft an outstanding essay.

Struggling with the thought, " write my college essay for m e"? Look no further.

Our dedicated definition essay writing service is here to craft the perfect essay that meets your academic needs.

For an extra edge, explore our AI essay writer , a tool designed to refine your essays to perfection.

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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Top 200 definition essay topics for all.

April 20, 2021

Essay writing can be hard if you don’t have the right essay topics. Most students need to make sure they choose a topic that they can adequately research, organize, and write about. A definition essay is a type of writing assignment that asks students to define a term, concept, or idea. Students cannot just provide a dictionary definition; students must extend the definition using well-thought examples. This list of definition essay topics covers a variety of areas. The topics are free to use and share with others.

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Students that learning how to write these types of essays should stick with a simple topic for definition essay that they can easily research and write about. Any student at the middle school or high school level should have no trouble working on the following:

What is trust essay
What is the definition of hatred?
What is the meaning of laziness?
What does it mean to be a first-world country?
What is the meaning of democracy?
What does it mean to be a hero?
What is the definition of a charismatic personality?
What is the definition of respecting one’s elders?
What is the definition of friendship?
What does it mean to be a coward?
What is the definition of jealousy?
What is the definition of being academically successful?
What is the definition of being a good student?
What is the definition of a good pet?
What is the bad way of breaking up with a partner?
What is the easiest way to change the oil on your car?
What does it mean to have a hit song?
What is meant by achieving academic success?
What does it mean to be a good student?
What do humans need to do to achieve peace?

Good Definition Paper Topics

A great definition essay topic should not pose difficult situations for students. Students can write about something they are familiar with and research what they are most comfortable with:

What makes a person kind or mean?
How does one define charisma in the 21 st century?
What does it mean to have a bad sense of humor?
What does it mean to love somebody unconditionally?
When athletes claim a person is a team player, what does it mean?
What does it mean to be optimistic during a pandemic?
What does it mean to be pessimistic during a pandemic?
What is the current definition of natural beauty?
What was the definition of beauty in the 1960s?
How does one give respect in the modern world?
What is the definition of happiness in today’s society?
What does it mean to have the dedication to succeed?
What is meant when experts warn of an economic recession?
What is meant when people achieve academic success?
What is meant by events that are from an “Act of God”?
What is meant when people find the perfect relationship?
How does one offer support to a loved one?
What is meant by alcoholic dependence?
What is the definition of entrepreneurship?
What is the definition of a professional internship?

Argument of Definition Topics

Some of the best topics for definition essay deal with everyday debates. These are the things people talk about often and make for great argumentative assignments:

What are the likely programming languages of the future?
What impact has the internet had on communication?
What are the characteristics of a government bailout?
What are the pros and cons of online learning?
What are the characteristics of an economic package?
What does it mean for a government to buy out a corporation?
What is the meaning of a good work ethic?
What are the characteristics managers use to hire employees?
What is meant by a generational talent in sports?
What does it mean to be artistic or creative?
What does it mean to create good art?
What is the meaning of a good soundtrack?
What is meant by having good common sense?
What does it mean to be a good professional athlete?
What does it mean to pay respect to others?
What is the definition of a dynasty in professional sports?
What does it mean to have the latest technology in business?
How does one provide child support in today’s economy?
How does one achieve true leadership?
What does it mean to be a loving parent?

Great Hot Topics Definition

The following topics for a definition essay work well for assignments you have about a week or two to complete. You can find ample information on the web, but you should rely more on academic resources you find at the library:

What does it mean to be addicted to pain medications?
How is veritable leadership defined in the workplace?
How is society progress defined in today’s world?
What is the meaning of eternal forgiveness in societies?
How do people exhibit respect and equality toward others?
What does it mean to be objective to art?
What does it mean to be loyal to one’s parents?
How does one explain racism to a child?
What is the definition of bigotry?
When can a political system for punishment be called just?
What is the definition of good parenting?
When is a child considered well-behaved?
What is the definition of a patriarchal system?
How is feminism defined in the 21 st century?
What does it mean to be a feminist in today’s world?
What is the difference between masculinity and femininity?
What does it mean to be a good parent?
What is the definition of being a good person?
What does gender equality mean?
What does it mean to be a third-world country?

Controversial Topics Definition

These topics for definition essays are controversial and will certainly gain a lot of attention. Be sure you commit enough time to find great resources that will back up your definitions:

What are the responsibilities of a first-world country?
What makes students lose interest in academic work?
What is the definition of a fun time at prom?
What does it mean to be a consenting adult?
What does it mean to have the perfect body?
How should the media portray young females on television?
What is meant by having the perfect relationship?
What is the meaning of a perfect marriage?
What is the definition of an extended family?
What does it mean to be mentally challenged?
What does it mean to have perfect children?
What constitutes cheating in a relationship?
What is the definition of a common-law marriage?
What is needed to get an annulment in the U.S.?
What is the definition of an arranged marriage?
What is the definition of an immediate family?
What is the meaning of a hit musical record?
What is the meaning of international diplomacy?
What constitutes an unfair criminal trial?
What does it mean to be sexually mature?

Definition Essay Topics for College

As students become more familiar with this type of assignment and as they advance to higher academic levels, they will need to choose good definition essay topics that meet or surpass the standards of their instructors’ expectations. Here is a list targeted toward college-level students:

What is the definition of academic sabotage?
What does it mean to cheat on a test?
What does it mean to develop mental strength?
What is the meaning of academic stress?
What does it mean to colonize a foreign territory?
What is the meaning of good fashion sense?
What is the meaning of good taste in music?
What is the definition of a rebellion?
What does it mean to be heroic in today’s world?
What is the definition of heroism in a technology-driven world?
What do people mean when they say gambling addiction?
What does it mean to have internet privacy?
What does it mean to protest in the 21 st century?
What is the meaning of constitutional rights?
What does it mean to have independence from parents?
What is meant when the media talks about white privilege?
What defines a terrorist threat?
What is meant when people refer to domestic terrorism?
What does feminism mean in the 21 st century?
What can be defined as a modern revolution?

Definition Speech Topics

These definition essay topics examples can be used for both speech presentations and written assignments. They are perfect for all academic levels and are relatively easy to research using online and print resources:

What does it mean to be a good parent in a technology-based world?
What does it mean to give children their privacy?
What does it mean to apologize to one’s children?
What does it mean to give children freedom in today’s world?
What does it mean to have a cultural history?
What is the definition of accountability?
What is meant by the term “teacher’s pet”?
What does it mean to be connected to one’s heritage?
What does it mean to have a fair election?
What does it mean to be a good role model for your kids?
What does it mean to be a good role model for society?
What is meant by a morally just act of war?
What defines a justified military attack on a city?
What does it mean to be addicted to caffeine?
What is the definition of an inappropriate teacher-student relationship?
What are the major causes of global warming?
What is the reasoning behind human cloning?
What were the major characteristics of the 60s hippie movement?
What is the meaning of independent sovereignty?
What is meant by the perfect poker hand?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

There are many occasions where using humor is a great way of handling definition topics. Students can often write freely without having to do much research. Here is a list that may be suitable for these occasions:

What is the definition of being a bad tourist?
What are the characteristics of a poser?
What is a kind of music you are embarrassed to hear?
What does it mean to help the upper class?
Which season is the best one for slacking off?
Which is the best type of pet?
What is the hardest subject in school?
What is the definition of dark humor?
What can be expected from next year’s television programs?
What was the hardest part about wearing masks during quarantine?
Why don’t we feel our planet rotating around the sun?
Why can’t cough people cough and sneeze at the same time?
What is the reason we haven’t come into contact with aliens?
What makes it hard for us to be polite to others?
What is the meaning of slapstick humor?
What does it mean to be rich in life?
What makes for a good television sitcom?
What does it mean to be a typical tourist?
What do people mean when people roll their eyes?
What is the definition of ironic comedy?

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Some of the best essays come from a careful selection of definition paper topics. Creative essay ideas and challenge students is a great way of attracting attention and earning a high score on an assignment:

What does it mean to be poor?
What defines a historical figure?
What is the definition of offensive language?
What is meant by the term social anarchist?
What does it mean to live in a monarchy?
What does it mean to ban free speech?
How do checks and balances in the United States work?
What is the purpose of a standardized test?
What does it mean to Ghostlight somebody?
What is global capitalism?
What are the characteristics of a socialist government?
What does mass media mean to different societies?
What makes for a good piece of writing?
What does freedom of the press mean in the U.S.?
What is the definition of a well-written essay?
What does it mean to censor offensive language?
What are the characteristics of a democratic society?
Who was Nero and why was he important?
What did Stalin do that was condemned by others?
What does liberal ideology mean?

Extended Definition Topics

With this type of essay, you may want to include things like etymology and historical context to define an idea. Here is a definition essay topics list that meets these requirements:

What is meant to have self-respect in today’s world?
What is meant by showing courage during difficult situations?
What is the definition of contempt in court?
What is the meaning of greatness in society?
What is the definition of emotional abuse?
What is the meaning of a manslaughter charge?
What does it mean to be pessimistic about climate change?
How is one’s legacy defined by his successes?
What is the meaning of higher education?
What is the meaning of unconditional love?
What is the definition of statutory rape?
What is the meaning of being loyal?
What is the definition of a good university?
What is the meaning of the term argument?
What is the definition of an avid reader?
What is the meaning of greatness in sports?
What is the meaning of a plea bargain?
What is the meaning of spousal abuse?
What does it mean to be knowledgeable of world events?
What does it mean to be patriotic in today’s world?

All the definition essay topics from our professional writer service can be shared and modified to fit assignment requirements. The topics definition can be sued for long and short projects. Students should try to choose a topic that interests them so that the process of researching and forming arguments will be less challenging.

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Definition Essay Topics

But writing an effective definition essay requires exploring the nuances of a word and explaining it from several different perspectives. Confused? Don’t worry, this article will tell you everything you need to know about how to write a high scoring definition essay.

What is a Definition Essay?

A definition essay is a common writing assignment in schools and universities. Put simply, It asks a student to choose a word and define it in-depth. The common dictionary definition is the first thing to state (in your own words), then the lesser-known meanings of the concept, followed by personal anecdotes and opinions further explaining the word.

These assignments usually have word limits of up to 500 words. There are two main difficulties, either finding a definition essay topic to write 500 words about or fitting a lengthy and complex definition into the word limit.

Some words are concrete concepts like clothes, telescope, or computer which may seem simple to write about but are ill-suited topics for a definition essay, while others are abstract like morality, envy, or justice which are much better because they allow for a more nuanced essay.

Writing a successful definition essay means exploring a word more deeply than just stating its definition. The goal is to show a deep understanding of the chosen word or concept. Choosing the right word is crucial to writing a successful definition essay.

The overall structure of a definition paper is the same as any essay. Just remember that each body paragraph should explain the term in a different way.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic

Choosing the right topic can make or break your essay. What is a good topic for a definition essay? Concrete concepts may seem easy to write about, but they often defeat the purpose of the assignment by not letting the writer show their critical thinking and writing skills.

An abstract concept with disputed meanings or definition essay topics with multiple meanings will give you enough to write about, but choose something specific rather than broad. Paranoia is a better definition essay topic choice than just the concept of fear in general. Remember, you have to find a concept that you know enough to write about, but also one that you can fully explain in about 500 words or so.

Avoid choosing a noun about a place, person, or thing since they are concrete concepts and might not give you enough to write about. An abstract noun, referring to an idea and adjectives are better choices for a definition essay topic. For example, gaming rather than console.

Choose a word that you already have some information about or feel passionate about. The better you know the concept, the easier it will be to write.

Answering some questions will help you understand and decide on a word.

What is the Origin of the Word?

What are the roots of the word? What do the roots mean? How did the modern meaning of the word come to be? Understanding the roots of a word can give you insight into what the word truly means and be excellent research for your essay.

What is the Context of the Word?

Does the word mean the same thing in different contexts? It’s quite possible that the word means different things in different places, or that there are multiple meanings to the word that you aren’t aware of.

What are the Previous Versions of the Word?

The meanings of words tend to change over time. Sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s drastic. Tracking the previous meaning of the word will give you insight into the evolution of its meaning.

What is the Common Modern Usage of the Word?

The way the word is used today should be the main explanation. By doing the research you make sure that you aren’t working with an outdated concept of the word.

Just because you now know how to choose a topic for your definition essay doesn’t mean that examples won’t be helpful. Here’s a list of 100 good definition essay topics across several categories.

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Definition Essay Topics List by Category

Extended definition essay topics.

An extended definition essay has essentially the same purpose as a definition essay except it asks you to analyze the term even more deeply and gives you the opportunity to incorporate additional personal opinion. You can pinpoint the exact meaning of a term and explain why other meanings may be incorrect. Analyze the word by identifying its antonym (opposite). Delve deeper into the history and roots of the word to back your interpretations etc. The topic of an extended definition needs to be chosen carefully because there needs to be enough complexity to work with. Have a look at these definition essay topic ideas.

The difference between a “Novel” and other pieces of long-form writing.

Why poverty means different things in different countries

Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder?

My experiments with truth

Does faith actually require a leap?

The different forms of love

Is there really something as an “Ideal” form of something?

Why a home is more than a house

A stirring inside: Music

When are humans not acting?

Good Definition Argument Essay Topics

There are always going to be people on multiple sides of an issue. An argument definition essay gives you the chance to convince the reader of your perspective on a controversial or ill-defined concept. It lets you state what you feel and what side you’re on. Take a look at these topics for an argument definition essay.

Conspiracy theories are just as valid as mainstream theories

Deep dish versus New York: What makes a pizza a pizza?

Is emotional infidelity as bad as cheating?

Science fiction is the best literary genre

Sports are the ideal hobby

Is corporate social responsibility done for the wrong reasons?

The death penalty: Justice or arrogance?

Does secular mean all-inclusive or completely non-inclusive?

The difference between a freedom fighter and a rebel is which side wins

Patient care: A doctor who’s nice or a doctor who’s effective?

Definition Essay Topics for College

Definition essays assigned in college are expected to be masterfully written with nuance and subtle understanding of the concept being explored. The following are 10 examples of definition essay topics for college.

Is college the best path to upward social mobility?

Does maturity mean different things at different stages of life?

A personal account of personal independence

The misery of loneliness

How to define success

Bullying doesn’t end in high school, it evolves

Homesick for the very first time

The joy of self-determination

The importance of time management

Changing concepts of the self

Funny Definition Essay Topics

A definition essay can be a fantastic opportunity to showcase your wit! You can choose to play with an amusing concept, or explore an idea from an interesting viewpoint. Get inspired by the following topics.

Puppy love: How a dog feels about its master

Why dork is a worse insult than you think

Wrench: A useful tool? Or to take something away?

Lit: Not about candles anymore

I speak sarcasm

Facebook: Social media for old-timers

I think my dads going through a midlife crisis

Jokes for children and why they aren't funny anymore

Why a Lorry is not a truck

French fries weren’t invented in France

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Writing about things you’re passionate about is a good decision when writing a definition essay. These controversial topics should ignite your passion, just make sure that you don’t get too carried away!

Vaccines have changed the course of humanity

War, what is it good for?

What is the purpose of incarceration?

Is happiness overrated?

Why being sad doesn’t mean being depressed

Gaming doesn’t rot your brain

Is it still addiction without a physical dependency?

Romantic love is a modern concept

Globalist is actually a compliment

Why nationalism is bad

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Abstract Definition Essay Topics

Abstract topics for definition essay can be simple or incredibly complex. They give you the freedom to give your own interpretation (backed by supporting arguments) on words that have a fluid meaning.

Honor is valued differently by people

What does freedom mean for a refugee?

Schadenfreude: Pleasure at the misfortune of others

Compassion is the most valuable human trait

I’m the best at being humble

The speed of thought

Boredom: A state of mind

Why friendship means more than family

Humour is the best medicine

Spotting a charismatic person

Easy Definition Essay Topics

It’s completely fine If you don’t want to explore a complicated concept or you just want something easy to write about. Give the words dictionary definition, explain the perception of the word, and then add your personal thoughts. Feel free to use some of these good topics for a definition essay.

What makes a house a home?

Why vacations are important

Laughter is the best medicine

What family means to me?

What is democracy?

Popularity and why it’s important

My connection with worship

What exactly is science?

Why is a beach the perfect place to be?

Dancing is freedom

Definition Essay Topics on Love, Poetry, and Music

A topic that you feel emotional about is always a good choice, and nothing inspires passion more than love, poetry, and music.

Love: Pleasure through pain

Why plutonic love is the purest form of love

The fascinating ways love is expressed in different cultures

Poetry: Words that pull at the heart

Why poetry has always been admired

Do rap lyrics count as poetry?

Music: A language that every human speaks

Explaining different tastes in music

Music as the first form of human communication

The connection between dance and music

Definition Essay Topics on History, Politics, and Governance

Writing a definition essay about things you’re interested in or studying cut down on a lot of research time and can be more enjoyable. Or maybe your teacher assigned the general topic, in any case, here are some examples!

If history is written by the winners, do we really truly know what happened?

Are we doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past?

What is personal history?

The perception of politics in different places in the world

The origin of politics in early human civilizations

Politics: One for all or all for one?

Was the feudal system a form of social governance?

The changing role of governance in the 2020s

Governance: Serving the people or feeding one’s ego

The difference between politics and governance

Definition Essay Topics on Economics, Business, IT, and Commerce

If you’re aspiring to join the business world or want an MBA, you’ll have to know the definitions and complexities of many terms. A lot of concepts in economics, business, IT, and commerce are abstract and ill-defined, which makes them perfect for a definition essay. Have a look at some of these topic examples.

Is scarcity an artificial construct?

What does economic freedom really mean?

Economics in the middle ages

Business ethics in a globalized world

Is there a connection between busyness and business?

What makes a person a businessman?

The origins of the word “programming’

What information technology meant in the 1980s

Is free-market trade good for the world?

How monetary supply affects day to day life

This list of definition essay topics examples should set you on the right track!

Things to Keep in Mind

The structure of a definition essay is the same as any other essay. The challenge is in describing a word or concept in a compelling way while showing in-depth understanding. Choosing the right definition essay topics are the most important element of writing a successful definition essay. Here’s a summary of how to make sure you’ve chosen an appropriate topic

An abstract concept is better than a concrete concept
Make the term specific rather than broad
The word should have multiple meanings
A word with disputed meaning is a good choice
Choose a word that has a different meaning based on the context
Select a topic that you already understand well
Choose a term that you feel passionately about
Identify the origins of the word
Look into previous versions of the word
Track the history of the word

If you are looking for assistance with your academic writing, Studyfy is a comprehensive platform that offers a range of services to suit your needs. Whether you require history essay help , need someone to write my philosophy essay , or seek support with term paper writing service or nursing paper writing service , Studyfy can provide you with the necessary assistance. Additionally, if you need help with a definition essay, whether it be finding example topics or receiving help from essay editors and online proofreading services, Studyfy is the one-stop solution for all your academic needs. With the support of Studyfy's essay writing service online , you can produce high-quality papers and showcase your writing skills with confidence.

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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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How to Write a Definition Essay: A Step-by-Step Manual for Writing an A+ Paper

Samuel Gorbold

According to a definition essay meaning, it involves a thoughtful exploration and clarification of the significance of a chosen concept. To begin, carefully select a term that is broad enough to allow for in-depth analysis but specific enough to avoid ambiguity. Start the essay with a concise and standard definition drawn from reputable sources like dictionaries to provide a foundational understanding. However, most of the essay should go beyond this basic definition. Delve into the complexities of the concept, breaking it down into different components, categories, or aspects. Provide examples, anecdotes, and scenarios that illustrate the notion in various contexts, allowing readers to grasp the nuances and depth of its meaning.

Wondering how to add a definition in an essay? Structurally, a definition essay typically follows a clear and organized format. Begin with an introduction that introduces the term and its importance, followed by a thesis statement that outlines your interpretation. Each subsequent paragraph should focus on a different vista of the concept, exploring its history, evolution, and various renditions. Use transitions to ensure a smooth flow between passages. In conclusion, summarize the key points, restate your hypothesis, and leave the audience with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action. Remember that the goal is not just to define the notion but to provide a comprehensive and insightful exploration that enhances the professor's competence. Our essay writers online can help you foster a richer appreciation for the complexities inherent in language and society.

What Is a Definition Essay

A definition essay meaning suggests it is a type of academic writing that aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of a particular construct or concept. Unlike other forms of essays that may focus on argumentation or persuasion, a definition essay primarily seeks to elucidate the meaning of the chosen motif. What is the purpose of a definition essay? To delve beyond the surface-level comprehension of the word and offer a nuanced explanation combining personal insights and a broader, commonly accepted definition. This genre of essay often requires careful analysis, research, and consideration of various perspectives to present a well-rounded and thorough exploration of the selected consideration.

During the definition essay writing process, it is crucial for the writer to not only offer a concise dictionary-like definition but also to provide context, examples, and relevant anecdotes that help illuminate the leitmotif's multifaceted nature. This allows the reader to gain a deeper familiarization of the subject matter and encourages critical thinking. The essay may cover abstract concepts like love, justice, or freedom, or it can explore concrete assumptions such as technology, democracy, or sustainability. Through carefully selecting the apprehension and thoughtful exploration of its meaning, a well-executed definition essay engages readers.

Definition Essay Outline

To learn how to write a definition essay, you have to understand that a well-structured definition essay typically follows a standard creative writing format to ensure clarity and coherence in presenting the chosen concept. The introduction serves as the starting point, where the writer provides a standard definition of the aspect to establish a baseline realization for the audience. However, the introduction should go beyond a mere dictionary definition; it should include an argument that outlines the writer's interpretation and sets the stage for the following in-depth exploration. This statement guides the tutor on what to expect in the essay and highlights the specific dimensions the writer will delve into.

After realizing how to start a definition essay, proceed to the main body, where the idea is dissected and examined in detail. Each subsection within the body should focus on a distinct aspect or facet. It's crucial to provide clear and comprehensive explanations, incorporating examples, anecdotes, and illustrations to enhance the reader's erudition. Additionally, consider organizing the body paragraphs logically, perhaps moving from the more general vistas to its more specific or nuanced dimensions. Transitions between sections are essential for maintaining a smooth flow and coherence.

Finally, the conclusion should restate the key sentence, summarize the key points discussed in the body, and offer a thoughtful reflection or a broader implication of the facet. The conclusion should leave a lasting impression and reinforce the significance of the conception in the context explored throughout the essay. Browse these essays for sale to find great examples of definition essays performed by academic wordsmiths.

Introduction

Hook: Engage the classroom with an interesting fact, quote, or anecdote related to the theme.
Background: Provide a standard and basic definition from a reliable source.
Thesis Statement: Clearly state your interpretation and the aspects you will explore in the essay.

Body Paragraphs

Aspect 1: Start with the broader or general outlook.
Definition: Provide a detailed explanation of the first aspect.
Examples: Offer relevant examples, anecdotes, or scenarios to illustrate the concept.
Aspect 2: Move on to a specific dimension.
Definition: Delve into the details of the second aspect.
Examples: Support your explanation with concrete examples to enhance clarity.
Continue with additional angles as needed, ensuring a logical flow between passages.

Counterarguments (Optional)

Address possible alternative interpretations or misconceptions.
Refute counterarguments and reinforce the validity of your interpretation.
Summarize: Recap the key points discussed in the body paragraphs.
Restate Thesis: Reinforce your interpretation of the term.
Concluding Thoughts: Provide a thoughtful reflection, broader implication, or a call to action.

Definition Essay Introduction

In the introductory section of a definition essay, the reader is presented with the topic in a manner that is not only highly informative but also compelling enough to engage them throughout the entire essay. To achieve this, the following elements are crucial:

Hook: Utilize a captivating phrase or question to seize the reader's attention.
Background Information: Briefly elucidate the topic and underscore its significance in being defined.
Thesis Statement: Clearly articulate the term and provide your own interpretation of it.

Definition Essay Thesis

Unlike traditional theses, a definition essay thesis statement doesn't require the writer to argue a point. For those aiming to write an effective definition essay, the key lies in incorporating a central assertion into the concluding sentence of the introduction. Whether you're immersed in the study of astrophysics at a top-tier college or any other discipline, your statement should succinctly define the concept in your own words.

Definition Essay Body Paragraphs

As we’ve learned how to start an essay with a definition, let’s move on to the main body. Within the body of your essay, dismantle the conception into its constituent elements, assess it from various perspectives, and offer a pertinent justification. Depending on the specific writing requirements of your assignment, the number of sections may exceed three. You can introduce additional sections or rearrange the order based on the complexity of the thought. Consider employing the following structure if you want to know how to write a definition paragraph:

Historical Definition: Detail the origin and evolution of the main idea.
Dictionary Definition: Present the official definition and draw comparisons with your own interpretation.
Personal Definition: Articulate your awareness of the hypothesis, supported by examples and anecdotes.
Expert Definition: Reference a scholar's definition and elucidate any disparities from your own rendition.
Cultural Definition: Examine how the notion is employed in popular culture and its reflection of societal values.

Definition Essay Conclusion

In the concluding paragraph, the final portion of the essay, you can study how to define a word in an essay. It is imperative to recapitulate the main points. Structure a fitting ending by following these steps:

Restate Thesis: Summarize your definition and underscore its significance.
Implications: Clarify how comprehending the focal point can influence our thoughts and actions.
Call to Action: Motivate readers to employ the term accurately and advocate for precise definitions within their communities.

Definition Essay Types

Have you encountered a captivating abstraction with a rich history but didn’t know how to put definition in essay? Before committing to it, carefully consider the characteristics of definition essay and the potential approaches you can take.

Break down your topic into distinct components.
Define each component separately to provide a detailed insight.

Classification

Identify and explore the different categories or groups that your term falls under.
Provide detailed explanations for each category, highlighting the nuances of the term.
Showcase the uniqueness of your term by comparing it to more common or typical things.
Highlight how your term stands out, whether through similarities or differences from the norm.
Identify and elaborate on the specific traits and qualities that best represent the central idea of your essay.
Support your definition with concrete examples illustrating the identified traits.
Clearly state what your term is not, providing a refined and narrowed definition.
Use negation to eliminate ambiguity and focus the reader's perception.

Origins and Causes

Explore the historical roots of your term, including its first appearance and any relevant historical details.
Provide insight into the origin and evolution of the concept over time.

Results, Effects, and Uses

Examine the consequences and outcomes associated with your term.
Detail the various ways in which the term is utilized and its significance in different contexts.

Tips for Writing a Definition Essay

Few students actually know how to write a definition in an essay, which can pose a challenge as it requires developing a thorough depiction of a singular term that combines both scholarly and personal elements. Selecting a term that allows for a comprehensive exploration of the essay is crucial, and adhering to traditional methods is instrumental in ensuring a nuanced grasp. Here are some tips to help you perform an effective and engaging definition essay:

Select a term that has a clear and widely accepted definition. Avoid writing overly broad or subjective terms that may lead to ambiguity.
Conduct thorough research to understand the various meanings and interpretations of the term. Consult reputable sources, dictionaries, and scholarly articles to gather comprehensive information.
Begin your essay by presenting the standard or dictionary definition of the term. This serves as a foundation for your own elucidation.
Write your personal exegis of the term. Share your perspective and insights, going beyond the standard definition.
Experiment with different approaches such as analysis, classification, comparison, or negation to add depth to your essay. This allows you to explore various facets of the term.
To answer the question how do you put a definition in an essay, illustrate your definition with relevant examples, anecdotes, or scenarios. Concrete examples help readers better grasp the meaning of the term.
Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each subsection should focus on a specific element of the term, contributing to a comprehensive interpretation.
Acknowledge and address different perspectives on the term. Discuss how the meaning may vary based on context, culture, or private experiences.
Use negation to define the term by explaining what it is not. This technique helps to eliminate confusion and refine the definition.
Strive for clarity and precision in your language. Avoid unnecessary complexity and ensure that each word contributes to the development of the term.
Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Ensure that your definition is well-supported and that your writing is free from grammatical errors.
Write for your target audience. Tailor your explanations to suit the level of erudition of your readers, providing enough detail without overwhelming them.
Summarize your main points in the conclusion and restate your argumentation. Consider the broader implications or significance of writing about the term.
Have someone else read your essay to gain feedback. This can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas for improvement.

Need extra tips regarding how to write an academic essay ? Our expensive guide offers everything you need and more to write A-grade essays quickly.

Definition Essay Topic Ideas

Check out 30 definition essay examples of topics that you can get inspired by and brainstorm your own brilliant ideas to write about in your essay.

Defining true achievement beyond material wealth.
Exploring the many faces of bravery.
Unraveling the layers of genuine connection.
A multifaceted journey to contentment.
Navigating the moral compass in a complex world.
The power to bounce back from life's challenges.
Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
The ever-evolving landscape of creative progress.
Striving for fairness in a diverse society.
Balancing personal liberties with social responsibility.
The interplay of self-perception and social constructs.
Integrating knowledge and experience for sound judgment.
The pursuit of fairness and equity in legal systems.
Nurturing connections that transcend time and distance.
Beyond the classroom – lifelong learning and growth.
Building bonds in a hyperconnected world.
Fostering hope in the face of adversity.
Inspiring and guiding others toward a common goal.
Unveiling the aesthetic essence beyond physical appearance.
Celebrating differences for a richer human experience.
Acts of selflessness in a self-centric world.
Balancing human needs with environmental responsibility.
Unleashing imagination for innovative problem-solving.
A holistic approach to physical and mental well-being.
Standing in the intersection of heritage and modernity.
Examining the impact of innovation on human life.
Transformative growth in the face of challenges.
The evolution of thought and behavior across the lifespan.
Discovering meaning and direction in life.
The art of expressing ideas and building connections.

Two Definition Essay Examples

To grasp the essence of what writing definition essay is about, it’s always a great idea to have a vivid example in front of you. Preferably done by someone who knows their writing craft. If you choose to use this definition essay example as a reference, feel free to analyze its structure and format. Alternatively, you can opt to purchase an essay affordably and of the highest quality on our platform!

How to Write a Good Thesis Statement for Definition Essay?

How to write a definition essay, how to format a definition in an essay, how to write a definition paragraph.

Samuel Gorbold , a seasoned professor with over 30 years of experience, guides students across disciplines such as English, psychology, political science, and many more. Together with EssayHub, he is dedicated to enhancing student understanding and success through comprehensive academic support.

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100 Intersting Definition Essay Topics

Students all over the world look for definition essay topics at some points of their academic lives. The reason for this is simple: they got an assignment and are now worried about getting it done. There are a number of challenges connected with this task, and for doing everything correctly, you have to have a clear idea of what you’re doing. At first, it is important to figure out what definition essay is . It’s a genre of writing where you present, explain, and elaborate on some idea, concept, or object. If you check any definition essay topics list, you’ll see that it could be anything, from feelings to technical instruments and philosophical concepts.

Why are such tasks important? They give writers a chance to look at a specific subject from a much deeper perspective than they’re used to, and such practice will be useful in their future life. For example, you might have always known what love is, but have you dwelled on all its meanings? Did you know where the word itself came from and how people’s understanding of it differs depending on their circumstances? A paper like this lets you get a definitive answer. Choice of topic is extremely important, so knowing how to pick it is crucial.

Selecting Extended Definition Essay Topics

Deciding on a topic for an essay could look like a piece of cake, but in reality, it’s a complex process. You must select something interesting, educational, and academic in nature. Can you readily think of such themes? Probably not. With tips outlined below, making a choice will be easier!

Choose interesting, not boring. The worst mistake students could do is pick a topic they’ll hate. There are many definition essay ideas, and while some might seem easier than others, it doesn’t mean you should go for them. Be sure you like your topic and want to explore it. This will help you feel inspiration when you’re writing, so the process will not only be interesting to you, but to your readers as well.
Brainstorm. Discussing topics with friends or classmates is always a great idea. For one thing, you might find a sense of direction for your own essay. For another, you could make certain that you pick a unique topic. Very often, professors receive works dedicated to identical issues, and while it’s not always frowned upon, this is still a situation that should be avoided. You won’t want to be accused of plagiarism when you’ve put honest efforts into your essay.
Compare the topic against the word count. Some definition essay prompts are more substantial than others. Defining the concept of family could take 5 or even 10 pages, but something like a word “table” wouldn’t let you move farther than 1 or 2. So, think carefully. If you were told to write 1200 words, select a topic accordingly.
Check availability of sources. Be sure to check instructions or even a template if it’s available: professors often provide them to make their students’ writing easier. Are the number of sources indicated there? Most essays of academic level have to be based on credible support. That includes peer-reviewed articles, scientific books, and official sites with tested information.

100 Best Definition Paper Topics

A way to choose an appropriate topic is to look through different helpful lists. We’ve prepared one specifically for you. If you are in search of inspiration and cannot settle on an idea you’d like, check options below. There are 10 categories with 10 topics in each: think about which appeals to you more and feel free to pick anything that sounds good.

Family Definition Essay Ideas

Love and family often go together, but family life also has numerous problems. Choose any of these definition essay topics for college and explore this concept from the angle you like.

An Image of a Perfect Family: Define How It Looks From Your Perspective
Common American Family: What Does This Image Include?
What Does Being Teenage Parents Mean & How and Why It Happens?
Stepfather: Who Is He & What Role Does He Play?
Being a Mother: Concept, Responsibility, and Purpose
Who Are Abusive Parents and What Criteria Should Be Met to Be Defined as Such?
How Could Traditional Family Values Be Defined?
Families with Multiple Children: What Single Definition Unites Them?
Elaborate on the Concept of Being an Orphan: What Does This Mean?
In What Cases Does the Word “Dysfunctional” Apply to Families?

Love and Friendship Topics for Definition Essays

Almost every person has or had friends. These good definition essay topics will help you research this term as you see fit.

Love as Understood in Families Around the World: How Do Religion and Culture Affect Its Definition?
Romantic Attraction: What Feelings and Experiences Define It?
How I Understand the Idea of Having a Best Friend
Friendship Among Politicians as a Unique Phenomenon
How Would You Define Unhealthy Relationships?
Co-dependency: What Is It, What Causes It, & What This Leads To
Romantic Obsession: What Defines This Concept and How It Emerges?
Understanding Friendship: What Do Different Populations Say About It?
Parental Love and Its Inherency: How Do People Understand It?
Friendship between Men and Women: In What Ways Does It Exist?

Freedom Definition Essay Prompts

Who doesn’t want to be free? With these definition essay topics examples, you could make your point known.

What Freedom Means to Americans vs. the Rest of the World
How Do People Who Work All Their Lives Define Freedom?
Freedom for Prisoners: What Features Does This Idea Entail?
Limitations In School: What Are They?
Correlation between Concepts of Freedom and Personal Satisfaction
How Was Freedom Perceived During WW2?
Breaks at School: Why Have They Been Created?
Slavery in the Modern World, Its History, & Changing Reasons That Cause It
Money in the Context of Freedom
What Is Your Unique Understanding of Being Free?

This category is full of easy definition essay topics because happiness is a very universal concept that most people can understand.

Provide Your Personal View on What Being Happy Means
Define Connection between Dreams and Happiness
How Could Ancient People Perceive Freedom vs. How It is Understood Now
What Are Expectations in Terms of Happiness?
Helping Others to Feel Happy: Define This Phenomenon and Provide Explanation
How Does a Happy American Normally Look Like?
Suffering from Depression: What Does This Issue Mean in Relation to Happiness?
Characteristics of Being Unhappy
Concept of Joy as Understood in Developed & Underdeveloped Countries
Define Happiness Like It Is Seen by Families as Unites

Business Topics for Definition Essay

There are diverse topics for a definition essay in the sphere of business. If you are interested in learning how the world works and what money making entails, you might like some of these.

Define the Word Business by Explaining It & Analyzing Its Background
How Do You Personally Understand the Concept of Business?
Transition From Being Employed to Losing Job: Define & Explain It
Good Salary: What Would It Be in Modern America?
Merging between Companies: Explain What This Process Implies
What Are Start-Ups & How Is Their Success Defined?
Explain What Bankruptcy Is
What Is Definition of Social Packages and Why Do They Exist?
What Does Being Fired Mean?
Explain Maternal Leave and Rules That Surround It

Science and IT Definition Prompts

Science and IT are pretty complicated sectors, but they have lots of fascinating definition essay example topics, especially if this is something you have passion for.

Explain What Windows Is Like You Would to Newbies
What Concepts and Directions Does Math Include?
Cell Phones: Their Old & New Versions and How the Concept Has Evolved Over Time
Artificial Intelligence: What This Phenomenon Means & How It Came to Be
Internet as One of the Most Complex and Widest Concepts in Modern Times
Explain the Job of a Programmer: Which Aspects Are Included Into It?
What Defines Smartphone?
E-Learning: What Caused This and How You Would Define It?
Branch of Physics: Talk About Its Meaning
Define Laptops and Underline How They Differ From Computers

Definition Essay Topics For College Students

College presupposes tasks with a certain level of complexity. These definition argument topics correspond to it.

What Is Paragraph in Accordance with Academic Standards?
How Is Education Understood These Days?
Explain Relevance & Meaning of Part-Time Education
Role of Literature in Our Technology-Based World
What Does Having a Degree Mean Today?
Discuss the Idea Behind Plagiarism: Concept, Dangers, Reasons, & Impacts
Define Heteronormativity and Share Information about Its Origins
Brand Loyalty: What Could People Derive From This Concept?
Reveal the Core & Reasons of Fascism
Does Nobility Still Exist & How Could It Be Explained?

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Easy Definition Essays Topics

Sometimes students don’t want to spend too much time on their work. In such instances, easy and funny definition essay topics apply.

Poverty: How Do People From Different Social Classes Perceive It?
Define Home Along with Everything This Concept Entails
What Is Art and How Does Modern Concept Differ From the Past?
How Would You Define Personal & Global Success?
What Inspired Fanfiction & Who Are People Interested in Writing in This Genre?
Explain the Concept Behind Your Favorite TV Show
Most Perfect Teacher in the World: How Should They Look Like?
How Do Teenagers Perceive Popularity and What Meaning This Understanding Holds for Them?
Define Your Favorite Piece of Music
How Should Social Media Be Defined?

Creative Ideas

Some people are bursting with desire to do things differently. If you’d like creative definition essay topics, check these out.

What Does a Self-Publishing Process Entail & What Meaning Does It Have?
Talk About Polygamous People & What This Implies
What Is Wedding & Which Attributes Represent It?
All Types of Bed-Sharing: Discuss Them with Examples
Ghosts: What Are They & When Did People Start Talking About Them?
Good Sleep: How Many Hours Are needed & What Dreams Are Preferable
What Are Online Trolls?
Explain Laptop Freezing, Its Causes, & Reactions This Problem Evokes
Rainbow Flag: Where Did It Come From & What Meaning Does It Hold?
“Supernatural” Concept: Explain This Idea

Extended Definition Essays Ideas

Some definitions could be extended to cover more complex or general ideas. These definition paragraph topics will show you how it could be done.

Being Miserable and Committing Crimes: Define Link Between These Concepts
Pick Any Three Related Concepts and Elaborate On Them
Life in Abusive Households & Becoming Abusive: What Do They Mean?
What Is Laziness & Ways of Its Expression
Define Having a Selfish Nature
Weak Teachers: How Would You Explain This Occurrence?
What Is the Best Definition for Coldness as Personal Trait?
Human Sexuality and All Its Sides
Phobias: Explain Concept & Define Its Elements
How Can Segregation Be Understood?

Pick Great Definition Speech Topics and Learn Beauty of Writing

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Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose the Best?

What Is a Definition Essay? ‍ Definition Essay Structure

How to choose a topic?

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MoreTopic Ideas

Final Words

Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple. All you need to do is to pick a word and explain what it means. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Compared to all other essay types, definition papers can get rather tricky, if not challenging.Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple at first sight. All you need to do is to pick a term and explain what it means in your own words. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Unlike all other essay types, definition papers can get tricky, if not challenging.

A student must look deep into the problem to create an A-worthy definition paper. It is not enough to simply rephrase the standard definition. Instead, it is necessary to approach the chosen word from different perspectives, look at it from different angles, consider its origin, and keep an eye for detail. That’s the key to success.

Is that all? Unfortunately, writing itself is not the only problem. A lot depends on whether you can choose an effective topic for a definition essay. If you handle this task, you can ensure the success of your essay. But if you fail, no matter how high-quality your essay's content is, you will most likely not get a high grade. Thus, it is vital to make the right choice.

Sounds too confusing and complicated? We get you. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This article will tell you everything you need to know to choose brilliant topics. Also, here, we will share a list of good definition essay topics to help you find inspiration and get on the right track!

What Is a Definition Essay?

A definition paper is one of the most common essay types, often assigned in schools and colleges. This type of paper has a similar structure to a regular essay. However, it has a different purpose. Our paper writing service will tell you in detail what it definition essay and how to work with it correctly.

In a nutshell, the core goal of definition essays is to explain a chosen word, phrase, or complex to the reader. Therefore, students must carefully study and analyze the desired concept to achieve this goal.

Some of the key things to include in your essay are:

A common dictionary definition (in your own words)
Origin of the term
The modern meaning, as well as other old or less known definitions
History of the word
Your personal opinion

How long should an essay be? This type of paper is rather short. Typically, it has to be around 500 words. Your goal is to explain the chosen concept to the fullest without exceeding the word limit or making your essay too short.

Since the main focus of this type of essay is a single word or concept, the choice of topic is the most important step. Definition essay topics can be very different. They can be more abstract, like morality or justice, and more specific, like computers or music. In many cases, abstract topics are better as they allow more creativity and give you plenty of scope for research.

In this article, we will tell you how to pick a perfect topic for your definition essay and share some great topic ideas that you can choose right now.

Definition Essay Structure

In the process of composing any essay type, writing skills define success. Hence, useful tips are what you need at all stages, including writing an outline. Usually, students write definition essays by the general essay rules. So, by common sense, your work should look like this:

Introduction and thesis statement
Several body paragraphs

Essay writing guides recommend performing good research before writing a plan. Start with an interesting sentence to draw your reader’s attention. Then, for the main body, look up all the explanations of the particular word. How do people understand its literal meaning? How does society use it in everyday life? Maybe, you have a personal experience connected to this term, so write about it! Finally, as an illustration, pick an abstract word like self-esteem or peer pressure.

Eventually, add some closing remarks where you rephrase the main idea of the work. Now you have your perfect essay without hiring writers, thanks to professional writing advice!

How to Make the Right Choice of a Definition Essay Topic

As you probably already know, a good topic is a key to success in writing any academic paper. A definition paper is not an exception. To create a high-scoring paper, you must know how to choose the right topics for a definition essay. After all, how can you possibly create an A-level essay if your subject does not engage the readers?

Okay, that’s clear, but how can you define a good topic for a definition essay and what isn’t? Choosing the essay topic can be troublesome, no matter how easy it may seem. It shouldn’t be boring. At the same time, it has to give you enough scope for research and be clear.

Finding the right combination can be hard. But, we, the professional writing service, are here to lend you a helping hand! We gathered some of the handiest dos and don’ts that will help you find good definition essay topics at ease.

Start in advance to have enough time to choose a perfect topic and conduct thorough research.
Read a few samples of an essay to get a clear idea of what topics other students choose and understand what teachers expect of you.
Make a list of options you can choose.
Opt for topics that are clear and familiar to you.
Conduct primary research to collect facts and details about your options.
Analyze the available facts to choose the right topic.
Don’t choose a topic that is too boring.
Don’t opt for too generic words that are clear to everyone.
Don’t choose words that don’t have any hidden meaning.
Don’t use topics that are too controversial and create debates since your goal is to define the term but not to argue about something.

These basic tips will help you identify the right topic for essay writing. But, let us give you one more piece of advice. To ensure that your theme is truly engaging, you should pay close attention to details. Namely, here are the main things you have to learn about the chosen word or term:

Background - Before writing, you should have a clear idea of the origin of the chosen word. Find out where it came from, who used it first, etc.
Meaning - meanings of words tend to transform throughout the years. Thus, it is important to find out if your word had a different meaning initially that changed over time. Conduct research and collect facts from good sources.
Antecedent versions - just like the word's meaning can change over time, the form itself can also change. So be sure to check if there were any early versions of the same word.
Application - how was this word used in the past? And how is it used today? Discover different applications of the same word to find controversies in usage.

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7 Most Common Types of Definition Essay Topics Lists

All definition essay topics can fall into several categories based on the purpose and nature of the essay you want to write. To use our service, you must choose the right topic category that aligns with the purpose of your academic writing, making it easier for our experts to help me write my paper effectively.

In this section of our article, we are going to take a closer look at the seven most common definition essay topics and provide high-quality definition essay topics examples for each:

Extended Definition Essay Topics

In a nutshell, this type of work is pretty much the same standard definition paper. The core goal stays the same - your task is to explain particular words, phrases, or abstract terms. The only key difference is that it requires you to make an even deeper analysis. Also, this type of work allows you to showcase your personal opinion.

A perfect topic for this type of work has to be complex enough to let you analyze it deeply. Therefore, you should pick terms that have a broad meaning.

Now that you know about the key features of this type of paper, here are a few good extended definition essay topics for you to try:

What does it mean to be brave, and how is it different from having courage?
What is faith?
What is the true meaning of love?
How to define beauty?
What does trust mean to you, and what role does it play in our lives?
What is honesty?
How is wisdom different from knowledge?
What does it mean to be generous?
What is respect, and how is it manifested?
Why is hatred the most destructive feeling of all?

Definition Argument Essay Topics

A definition argument essay not only explains a concept but also strives to persuade the reader of something. It requires you to find the argument for definition essay topics that focus on an ill-defined or controversial concept. Then, you need to define your stance on a particular matter and convince readers of your perspective.

Here are some good definition argument essay topics to consider:

Mobile devices should be allowed in the classroom.
Racial segregation in the US.
What are the worst crimes of all?
Is the death penalty an arrogance or justice?
Sports is the best hobby for youth.
What is patriotism, and why is it vital in the modern world?
Global warming: What is it, and what are the main causes?
Why is corporate social responsibility inherent in the corporate world?
Should uniforms be obligatory in every school?
Should schools stop assigning homework?

Definition Essay Topics for College

College definition papers have the same purpose and requirements as standard definition essays. The main difference is that they must be deeper and clearly understand the defined concept.

To help you get on the right track, we have prepared ten great definition essay topics for college:

Who can be called a best friend?
What does it mean to have good mental health?
Define male chauvinism.
What is the true nature of hatred?
What is brand loyalty, and why does it matter?
Define cyberbullying.
The phenomenon of antisemitism.
What is success?
Define maturity.
What does self-determination mean?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

While there is no place for humor in most essay types, a definition paper allows you to showcase your sense of humor by choosing a funny concept to define or offering readers an amusing viewpoint on something.

Here is a funny definition essay topics list to help you find inspiration:

Why are funny cats videos the best thing in the world?
The most awkward date.
What is sarcasm, and why don't people get it?
Why should [a celebrity of your choice] go for the next US president?
Why do people love advertisements?
Why are dogs people’s best friends?
High-school stereotypes and why they can be good for you?
Why should animals have more rights than people?
How to become the most annoying you can be?
How to waste your time properly and always get away with it?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Definition essay topics that are controversial may be hard to disclose in a paper, but they are fun to discuss. Here are a few controversial themes to consider:

Is happiness that important?
Are vaccines good or bad for us?
Playing video games is good for you.
What is nationalism, and why is it bad?
Is e-learning more or less effective?
Artificial Intelligence: A new stage of evolution or a global hazard?
The pros and cons of spam.
What measures of punishment are unacceptable in a healthy family?
Is romance dead these days?
What are the positive aspects of war?
How does a healthy weight connect with body aesthetics?
Is honesty an unattainable trait of a good person?

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

While more specific words and terms are easier to define, more abstract topics can give you more space for creativity. In addition, abstract topics with multiple meanings allow you to interpret a chosen word or concept in your way.

Here is a list of some good abstract topics to choose from:

What is freedom?
Compassion: How to define it and why is it important?
What does being lonely mean to you?
What is boredom?
Laughter is the best medicine
What is grief?
Why do friendships mean so much in our lives?
Explain the concept of adolescence.
Define charisma.
What is civility?
What does the term freedom mean today?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

It is great if you are willing to explore a complex concept in your essay. But, remember that it is also okay to look more into easy topics. Easy definition essay topics are only different because you can explain them using a dictionary.

Typically, words, phrases, and concepts that are easy to define are pretty specific and narrowed. Here are a few ideas:

What does family mean to you?
Explain democracy.
Define the term equal rights.
What is poverty?
What can make a certain house your home?
What does it mean to be kind?
Explain terrorism.
What does marriage mean to you?
What is e-commerce?
Define colonization.

Topics for Definition Essay about Poetry, Love, and Music

What does platonic love mean?
Define poetry.
Why is poetry one of the most admired forms of art?
How is love expressed in different cultures?
Why do we love music?
Music is an alternative form of communication.
Define the connection between music and emotions.

Definition Essay Topics about Food, Health, and Sport

What is health and why is it important?
Explain mental health.
Why is doing sports good for you?
What is the difference between mental and physical health?
What is healthy eating?
Explain the impact of the food we eat on our health.

Definition Essay Topics about Environment and Nature

What is nature?
Define what an environment is.
The origin of the word “environment.”
Provide different definitions of nature.
What is deforestation?
Define the term “endangered species.”

Definition Essay Topics About Politics, History, and Governance

The origin of the word “politics.”
What is politics?
What is history?
The evolution of the term “history.”
Define the term governance.
What are the different forms of governance?

Definition Essay Topics About IT, Business, Commerce, and Economics

What does it mean to be a businessperson?
Explain economic freedom.
The origin of the term “IT”
What does business ethics mean?

The Bottom Line

To wrap up everything we’ve discussed in this article, let’s take a look at the key rules of choosing a good definition essay topic once more:

The word or concept you are going to define should have multiple meanings.
It should be more specific than broad.
You should choose a topic that interests you.
It should be something you know.
It is vital to analyze the chosen concept well, identifying its origins, common meanings, etc.
It can be helpful to figure out the history of the word or term and its previous versions.

On top of that, you can think of society definition essay topics or sports definition essay topics. Ensure that you provide the different explanations in your research paper!

Choosing a topic for a definition essay is hard. But writing the paper itself is even harder. It takes solid skills, an in-depth understanding of the subject matter, and a lot of time to create an A-worthy essay. Luckily, there are endless interesting definition essay topics for college students.

However, don’t get stressed if you are feeling stuck! If you lack time for writing a definition paper or have no idea how to do it, ask the team of PaperWriter and buy an essay , we are always here to help you! Trust real pros in academic writing and get an A+ with ease!

Read also our synthesis essay example . This guide will definitely be useful for you.

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Are you looking for some of the best definition essay topics available? If so, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we have discussed great definition paper topics that can help you complete your assignment. Continue reading to understand the meaning of definition essay topics, explore the best way to select one, and get common tips to help you write a quality essay. Our essay writing services have also provided a list of topic ideas on various subjects to guide your research and writing.

What Are Definition Essay Topics?

A definition essay is a paper that explains the meaning of an idea, word, or term. It can also be described as an intricate dictionary that not only defines a term but also provide in-depth explanation and illustrations. Definition essay topics are the primary subject matters in a definition essay. Writers expound on definitions essay topics to inform readers about concepts or explain a word or term that has an abstract meaning. When researching topics for a definition essay, you should explore alternative interpretations from different perspectives. In other words, you can provide both official meaning and your personal interpretation with multiple examples. This type of paper, in many instances, should not be more than 250-500 words long.

Characteristics of Good Definition Essay Topics

Good definition essay topics share some unique characteristics. When selecting a subject matter, you should consider an issue that is simple to write and is interesting to readers. So, what is a good topic for a definition essay? Good definition paper topics should:

Have multiple meanings and interpretations.
Relate to unique word, phrase, or concept that will engage readers.
Discuss a subject that is both interesting and informative.
Relate to subjects that you have many different perspectives on.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Topics you select play a key role in determining your success in writing an academic paper. Choosing definition topics can be very challenging. In many cases, instructor will provide you with a list of ideas to pick from. However, in other scenarios, you may be required to research a definition essay topic from scratch. In this section, you will find common tips to guide you in choosing paper topics. Follow the steps below to select a good definition paper topic.

Select good words to write a definition essay on. Avoid words with single meanings.
Pick argumentative phrases and concepts which will enable you to express your writing skills and knowledge on your preferred subject. You should be able to write more than one paragraph on your selected topics.
Check for unique words and phrases that can engage your potential readers.
Develop a list of all possible topics to select from.
Choose a topic you are sure about. Select a topic that you have broad knowledge and points of view on.

It’s always a great idea to consult your professor before commencing a task. But if you need some writing inspiration, take a look below or try our Random Essay Topic Generator .

Best Definition Essay Topics List

Choosing a good topic is your first step towards writing a good academic paper. If you follow tips provided in sections above, you should be able to select some of the best definition essay topics available. Definition essay topic list below outlines great examples that you can choose from.

How can you define fun?
What does affirmative action mean and how is it being used in present-day society?
What is religion?
Define the argument concept.
How do you define social class?
What is artificial intelligence?
Are centralized and decentralized governments any different?
What is a personal understanding of power?
What is cryptocurrency and how does it deviate from the conventional financial system?
What is your understanding of corporate social responsibility?

Definitional Argument Essay Topics

For definition argument essay topics, you need to write about subjects that attract divergent opinions and thus, closely debated. Therefore, rather than having a topic that is straightforward and one-dimensional, definition argument topics should be argumentative in nature. Below are some examples of definitional argument topics in case you don’t know how to title an essay :

Physical activity should be encouraged more in schools.
Explain advantages and disadvantages of capital punishment.
Do high school students benefit from take-away assignments?
Abortion should be a legalized service.
Sex education should be included in school curricula from an early age.
Plastic surgery creates unrealistic beauty standards.
Is working out beneficial to your mental health?
Vaping is more dangerous compared to smoking.
Grading should be abolished in schools.
Genetically modified products are dangerous and should be abolished.
Video games negatively affect children’s social development.
Tertiary education should be free.
Is it ethical to use animals as test subjects?
Euthanizing animals is unethical.
Should vaccination be made mandatory?

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Contrary to other topic categories, extended definition essay topics take up more pages. A simple elucidation will not suffice. You will need to provide elaborate explanations and illustrations for readers to better understand extended definition topics. Below are some examples of extended definition essay topic ideas that you can use:

What does true friendship mean in modern-day society?
What makes a good partner in marriage?
What does misogyny and bigotry mean in the 21st century?
What are the main characteristics of a good leader?
Religious bigotry in Pakistan.
What is your interpretation of a mature individual?
What makes a person trustworthy?
What is your definition of a happy marriage?
What is the difference between ego and high personal standards?
How can you define common sense?
What is a creative mind?
What is a healthy weight?
Who is a patriotic citizen?
Who is an intelligent person to you?
What are the characteristics of a good person?

Need more ideas? Check our blog with extended essay topics and spot a catchy title.

Controversial Definition Paper Topics

Due to people’s divergent opinions, some subjects are very controversial. You risk offending a certain group of your readers when discussing controversial paper ideas. You should, therefore, pay more attention and be keener when discussing them. Below are examples of controversial topics for definition papers:

Ethical justification of death penalty.
Different ages of consent across different cultures.
Is abortion the murdering of an unborn child?
What is the meaning of gun control?
What is social media addiction?
What is the definition of mental disorder in modern society?
Difference between sex and gender.
What is a physician-assisted suicide?
What is the modern interpretation of feminism?
What is a juvenile correctional system in the US?
What laws regulate immigration in America?
What is freedom of speech in the context of modern society?
What are the residency rights of Palestinian in Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.
What is considered as explicit content in 21st century society?
What is home-schooling and its benefits?

Good Topics for a Definition Essay

To select good topics for definition essays, you need to have a perfect balance of creativity and intellect to come up with a subject that will intrigue your audience. Also, good definition essay topics should be simple to write and not complex to follow for your readers. Below is a list of some good topics:

What does “peace of mind” mean?
What is your perception of poverty in different social classes?
Define different types of art.
What is your personal understanding of love?
What is reverse racism?
What is global warming and how does it impact climate change?
Difference between respect and admiration.
What is your understanding of the term “natural beauty”?
What is the meaning of good parenting?
Define the concept of the rule of law.
Define the right to privacy in the context of modern-day technology.
What does sportsmanship mean?
Explain peer pressure and its impact on school-going children?
What is online shopping?
What is the meaning of the term “gender neutral”?

Once you spot a perfect idea and realize that the deadline is approaching, remember that you can trust professionals and order an essay online at StudyCrumb .

Creative Definition Essay Topics

You need creative definition essay writing topics if you wish to capture your readers’ attention. When exploring definition topic ideas for your essay, you should ensure that it is not only informative but also intriguing. In this section, you will come across some of the most creative topic ideas that you can use to develop a good essay.

What is love at first sight?
What is a respectable job?
How do you differentiate pleasure from happiness?
What is the difference between risk-taking and stupid decisions?
What is courage?
How does high self-esteem differ from arrogance?
What is the meaning of self-respect?
Define creativity and provide different types of creative works.
What is the meaning of a creative mind?
What is a nuclear family and its composition?
Define the concept of best friends.
How can you discern self-respect from pride?
Are religious people more moral?
Why are the best students less successful in life compared to average students?
How do you define dedication in a relationship?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Complexity of definition essay topics varies depending on students’ academic level or the target reader. For example, a high school student will work on an easy topic for a definition essay compared to a college student. Below are some simple topics for a definition paper:

What is racism?
What does it mean to be a good student?
What is the meaning of term “peer pressure”?
What is the meaning of laziness?
What is greed?
What is the meaning of cyberbullying?
What is classical music?
What is the definition of charisma?
What does it mean to become wealthy?
What exactly is hard work?
How do you keep power?
How can you define the word optimism?
What does the term “ agriculture ” mean?
What is the meaning of indoor sports?
What is the meaning of teamwork?

Definition Essay Ideas for Students

Sometimes, instructors may require students to write a definition essay. Good topics for definition essay should be relevant to the course content or school curriculum in general. Moreover, ideas for definition essays tend to vary depending on the academic level of students and their majors. This section outlines common definition essay topics across the high school and college levels.

Definition Essay Topics for High School

In this section, we will discuss definition essay topics that are suitable for students in grades 9-12. High school definition topics are simpler. Some definition essay topics often relate to grade-specific information. Some of the best topics are outlined below.

Explain the meaning of trust in the context of friendship.
What is the right age to start dating?
Differentiate between knowledge and wisdom.
Define the term “conspiracy theory”.
Differentiate between marriage and cohabitation.
Define the communism concept.
Define consumerism in present-day society.
Define antisemitism.
Discern intellectual from intelligent.
What is the meaning of positive discrimination and how can it be used for the benefit of society?
Differentiate between nature and nurturing in the development of children.
Meaning of avatar in the metaverse.
What is conflict management?
Define Murphy’s Law and how it can be applied in your life.
Discuss the meaning of birth control.

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Definition essay topics for college students are more advanced. Unlike at the high school level, where topics are not very complex, college students may be expected to research on topics that have multidimensional points of view. Are you finding trouble coming up with topics for definition paper? You can pick one from options provided below.

What is the meaning of Islamophobia?
Define the 3rd wave of feminism.
Define gene therapy and its role in the medical field.
What is the meaning of materialism and how does it vary in different cultures?
Differentiate between communism and capitalism.
How is male and female gaze used differently in cinema?
Define virtual education.
How have beauty standards evolved since the 20th century to the present-day?
Define Xenophobia in American society.
What is multiculturalism and how does it impact modern society?
How does social media affect attractiveness standards?
Define the concept of utilitarianism.
What is the meaning of a marriage in 21st century society?
Define and discuss effects of digital revolution.
What is green energy?

In case you also need ideas for a descriptive essay , we’ve got a blog with a whole assortment of interesting topics.

Definition Essay Prompts

Haven’t found ideas for a definition essay that intrigues you from the options above? Do not worry. There are still many prompts for a definition essay that are discussed in this section. There are many prompt options on multiple subjects to choose from. Ideas for definition essays have been filtered and categorized into various subjects to inspire your academic writing. Depending on your interests and preference, you can select the clearly sorted topics from the categories below.

Definition Essay Topics About Love

Love is a complex subject. The meaning of love and how it is illustrated varies from one person to another. At one point in your life, you must have experienced love. Love is a term that has multiple meanings and varied implications, making it a widely discussed definitional essay topics. Below are some of the popular definition ideas about love.

What types of love do you know?
Define various characteristics of love.
Love between human and non-human.
Define the term “love language”.
Is love at first sight a true phenomenon?
Is parental love automatic?
Is there a difference between love and friendship?
What is the meaning of self-love?
Discuss true love.
Does passion affect a person’s mental health?
What is God’s love?
Define same-sex love.
The meaning of love in different cultural setups around the world.
What is your ideal Valentine’s Day date?
Define the term “soul mate”.

Family Definition Topics

Family is another multidimensional subject that has a wide spectrum of meanings. You can approach the issue from different angles, including family values, members of a family, and other related aspects. Definition paper topics about family should be written in a manner that will make it feel personal to attain optimum reaction from readers. Below is a list of ideas for a definition essay.

What is the structure of a 21st century family?
Effect of teenage pregnancy on families.
Explain child marriage.
How does the concept of family vary across different cultures around the world?
What is the meaning of a nuclear family in present-day society?
Differentiate between an immediate and a chosen family.
How does the increased rate of divorce affect families?
Compare the traditional understanding of family to the modern meaning.
Define family values in today’s society.
How has the internet and technology affected the institution of family?
Differentiate joint families from private families.
How does foster families impact child development?
Define the primary role of a family in your life.
Define the elements of a strong family.
How do financial problems affect the stability of families?

Friendship Definition Essay Prompt Ideas

Friendship is another subject that is very close to many people’s hearts. Most of us have at least one person we call a friend. Relationship dynamics between different friends vary. It is understandable for people to have diverse opinions and strong feelings about the subject. As a result, there are many definition essay prompts on friendship for you to choose from. Some of the definition papers topics include:

Explain the meaning of a true friendship.
How much commitment does true friendship need?
Discuss the concept of “friends with benefit”.
Can you discern friendship from love?
Are friends closer to you than family?
What are the impacts of friends on your personality?
Differentiate between online friends and physical friends.
Define the concept of “best friends forever”.
Is a dog a man’s best friend?
How can you elaborate “friendship zone”?
Define a platonic relationship.
Can family members be friends?
What is the ultimate test of true friendship?
Can you have more than one best friend?
What is your understanding of the phrase “loyal friend”?

Hero Definition Essay Topics

A person’s idea of heroes and their qualities varies from one time to another. Besides, there is no universal standard for categorizing individuals as heroes. You can easily come up with many hero definition topic ideas due to these divergent opinions. Examples of definitive essay topics on this subject include:

Who is a hero?
Explain visual presentation of heroes in the past versus present-day society.
What are some characteristics of a hero?
Discuss the stereotyping of heroes in Hollywood.
Are heroes supposed to perform heroic actions?
Origin of super human abilities as a stereotypical characteristic of a hero.
Mythological versus modern-day heroes.
Differentiate between role models and heroes.
How can heroes inspire you?
Define different types of heroes.
Define the term “anti-hero”.
What is a hero in real life?
Explain how the concept of hero varies from one culture to another.
Is possessing superpowers a mandatory requirement to be a hero?
Define heroes as portrayed in Ancient Greek mythology.

Definition Essay Topics by Subject

Ideas for definition essays can fall into different categories depending on intention or the nature of the paper. We have grouped topics for a definition essay into six categories to simplify the process of selecting your preferred topic. Rather than looking through all definition topics, you can easily focus on the subject that aligns to your academic writing interests.

Business Definition Essay Topics

Below are good topics for a definition essay related to business:

Define economic depression.
What is the meaning of e-commerce?
What is social media marketing?
Define the term “start-up”.
What is the meaning of acquisition, merger?
Define international trade.
What is corporate social responsibility?
What is a business?
Important roles of statistics in business.
What does small and mid-size enterprise mean?

Definition Essay Topics on History

Learning about history is pivotal in ensuring that you are prepared for future events. Some of the best definition essay ideas include:

What is history?
Define the abolitionist movement.
What is the American Civil War?
Define the Arab Spring.
What is independence?
What is colonization?
What was the Civil Rights Movement?
What is a war?
Discuss the Vietnam War.
Define the concept of revolution.

Politics Definition Essay Topics

There are many different political systems in the world. In addition, political leaders have diverse political ideologies. As a result, people approach political science topics from different points of view. Commonly discussed topics for a definition essay include:

What is democracy?
Define federal versus state government.
What is a monarchy?
Define anarchism.
Define the term “whistleblowing”.
What does the term “witch hunt” mean?
Define the Fifth Amendment and efforts to enact it.
What is a totalitarian regime?
What is a political party?
What is a trade union?

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Philosophers in the past have been credited for the development of present-day society, government, and the education system. As a result, many philosophical things have been discussed over the years. Below is a list of some common definition topic ideas:

Define devotion.
What is utilitarianism?
What is freedom?
Define humanity.
How do you define justice?
Define beauty.
Define conflict of interest.
How can you explain the term “aura”?
Retribution versus rehabilitation.
Define consciousness.

Definition Essay Topics on Psychology

The study and practice of psychological concepts have increased significantly in the recent past. Below is a list of good definition essay topics related to the subject in case you are also interested:

Define attachment theory.
What does absolute threshold mean?
Explain the placebo effect?
What is a mental disorder?
Define avoidance learning.
What is a conditional reflex?
Define PTSD.
What is emotional intelligence?
Is gender dysphoria a mental disorder?
Define depression.

Technology & Science Definition Essay Topics

With advancements in technology, many people have increased interest in technology and science. The list below outlines definition essay topics that you can use for your paper. Check these ideas or browse these technology research topics if you need more suggestions.

What is clean energy?
Define fossil fuel.
Explain the term “augmented intelligence”.
Define identity theft.
Define virtual assistance software.
Define right to privacy in the current digital era.
What does the technological term “cookies” mean?
What is cloud computing?
What is technology?
Define targeted marketing.

Liked the ideas? We have more blogs dedicated to different title ideas such as expository essay topics , analysis essay topics , satirical essy topics etc. Browse through our articles to find a fitting topic for any assignment.

Bottom Line on Definition Essay Topics

In sum, a definition essay is a common type of an academic paper that requires you to define a word, term, or concept. As a student, you should be able to select good topics for a definition paper. This article provides you with excellent tips to help you in the process of identifying great definition essay topic ideas. In addition, the blog post has many examples of definition essay ideas on various subjects to simplify the writing process for you. This post should increase your chances of success in writing a definition paper.

Our academic writers are the ones you need to look up. Our professionals always deliver high-quality papers on time. Feel free to choose one of the topic ideas and contact StudyCrumb to get your essay done in no time!

FAQ About Definition Paper Topics

1. what are some good definition speech topics.

Not all definition essay topics are suitable for public speech. You should choose a topic that will capture the attention of your audience. Popular definition speech ideas include:

What is the meaning of discipline?
What is the modern-day standard of success?
What are the benefits of electric vehicles?
What is the value of time?

3. What are some great definition essay topic ideas?

This list outlines some great topic for definition essay that you can use for your definition paper.

What is industrialization and how does it affect today’s society?
What is grief?
What does liberalism mean as a political movement?
Define religion and its role in society.
Discuss roles of religion in promoting radicalization.

2. What are popular argumentative definition essay topics?

Good definitional argument topics ideas are characterized by divergent opinions. Example of these topics include:

Define pro-life versus pro-choice.
Define same-sex marriage?
Define patriotism in the context of American society.
Define overpopulation and its danger to earth’s ecosystem.
Define economic disparity across different ethnicities.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

100 Topics to Inspire Your Next Definition Essay

May 8, 2023 // by Lauren Du Plessis

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever for students to be well-informed and adaptable. In this article, we present 100 definition essay topics covering diverse areas such as art, literature, technology, leadership, education, health, environmental issues, and ethics. These topics will not only help learners develop a deeper understanding of the world around them but also challenge their critical thinking skills and help them make informed decisions.

Definition Essay Topics About Art and Literature

In this category, we will explore the various aspects of art and literature, delving into the meaning and significance of different forms, genres, and movements. By defining these concepts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and artistic expressions that shape our world.

1. Defining the concept of a literary classic: What makes a work of literature stand the test of time?

2. The essence of romanticism in art: How does this movement differ from other artistic styles?

3. The role of symbolism in literature: Exploring the power of symbols in conveying deeper meanings.

4. Understanding magical realism: What sets this literary genre apart from others?

5. The characteristics of a tragic hero in literature: How do tragic heroes differ from other protagonists?

6. Defining the elements of a successful short story: What distinguishes a short story from other forms of fiction?

7. The significance of the modernist movement in literature: How did it redefine literary norms?

8. The principles of abstract expressionism in visual art: What defines this artistic style, and how does it differ from other forms of abstract art?

9. The impact of postmodernism on literature and art: What are the key characteristics of postmodern works?

10. The role of the graphic novel in contemporary literature: How do graphic novels challenge traditional definitions of literature?

Definition Essay Topics About Technology and the Digital World

In this category, we will examine various aspects of technology and the digital world, looking into the meaning and implications of different technological advancements, concepts, and trends. By defining these topics, we can better understand the impact of technology on our lives and society as a whole.

11. Defining artificial intelligence: What distinguishes AI from other types of computer systems?

12. The concept of the Internet of Things (IoT): How does this technology revolutionize our daily lives?

13. The role of cybersecurity in the digital age: What are the key elements of effective cybersecurity measures?

14. Understanding the principles of virtual reality: How does this technology differ from other forms of digital media?

15. The impact of social media on communication and relationships: How has social media redefined human interaction?

16. The concept of digital privacy: What are the essential components of safeguarding our personal information online?

17. The evolution of e-commerce: How has online shopping transformed the retail landscape?

18. The role of cryptocurrencies in the global economy: What makes cryptocurrencies unique compared to traditional currencies?

19. Defining the principles of net neutrality: Why is this concept important for maintaining a free and open internet?

20. The impact of automation on the workforce: How does the rise of automation technologies redefine the world of work?

Definition Essay Topics About Leadership and Management

In this category, we will explore the intricacies of leadership and management, delving into the meaning and implications of various leadership styles, management approaches, and organizational structures. By defining these topics, we can better understand the dynamics that drive successful teams, organizations, and businesses.

21. Defining leadership: What are the essential qualities that distinguish a leader from a manager?

22. The concept of transformational leadership: How does this leadership style inspire and motivate employees?

23. The role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership: Why is emotional intelligence critical for leaders in today’s workplace?

24. Understanding the principles of servant leadership: How does this leadership style prioritize the needs of team members?

25. The impact of autocratic leadership: What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of this leadership style?

26. The concept of democratic leadership: How does this leadership style foster collaboration and decision-making among team members?

27. The role of strategic management in organizational success: What are the key elements of an effective strategic management process?

28. The importance of organizational culture in management: How does a company’s culture influence its performance and success?

29. Defining the principles of change management: Why is effective change management crucial for organizations in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape?

30. The role of conflict resolution in management: How can effective conflict resolution strategies improve workplace relationships and productivity?

Definition Essay Topics About Education and Learning

31. The concept of experiential learning: How does this educational approach emphasize hands-on experiences and real-world application of knowledge?

32. Defining multiple intelligences theory: What are the different types of intelligence, and how do they shape learning preferences?

33. The role of technology in modern education: How have digital tools and resources transformed teaching and learning?

34. The Montessori method of education: What are the key principles of this child-centered approach to learning?

35. The importance of critical thinking in education: How does developing critical thinking skills benefit students in the long term?

36. The concept of the flipped classroom: How does this instructional strategy shift the traditional classroom dynamic?

37. Understanding the impact of standardized testing on education: What are the benefits and drawbacks of standardized assessments?

38. The role of arts education in fostering creativity and cognitive development: How do the arts contribute to well-rounded learning experiences?

39. Defining the principles of inclusive education: How can schools promote equitable learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their individual needs?

40. The impact of homeschooling on academic achievement and social development: How does this alternative educational approach compare to traditional schooling?

Definition Essay Topics About Career and Professional Development

In this category, we explore various aspects of career and professional development, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning, personal growth, and acquiring new skills in the ever-evolving world of work. By defining these topics, we can gain insights into how individuals can navigate their careers and achieve professional success.

41. The concept of lifelong learning: How do ongoing personal and professional development contribute to career success?

42. Defining career mentorship: How can experienced professionals guide and support others in their career journey?

43. The role of networking in professional growth: How does building connections and relationships contribute to career opportunities?

44. Understanding the importance of soft skills in the workplace: How do interpersonal and communication skills influence professional success?

45. Defining the concept of work-life balance: How can individuals manage their personal and professional responsibilities effectively?

46. The impact of continuing education on career advancement: How does acquiring new knowledge and skills help professionals stay relevant in their fields?

47. The role of internships and apprenticeships in professional development: How do these hands-on experiences benefit individuals entering the workforce?

48. Understanding the concept of career pivoting: How can individuals transition from one career path to another successfully?

49. The importance of personal branding in career development: How can professionals showcase their unique skills and experiences to stand out in the job market?

50. Defining the concept of job satisfaction: What factors contribute to a fulfilling and rewarding professional life?

51. The significance of career planning: How can individuals create a roadmap for achieving their professional goals and aspirations?

52. Understanding the concept of transferable skills: How can professionals leverage their existing skillset when transitioning to new roles or industries?

53. The role of professional certifications in career advancement: How do industry-recognized credentials contribute to professional credibility and marketability?

54. Defining the concept of career resilience: How can individuals overcome setbacks and challenges in their professional journey?

55. The importance of adaptability and flexibility in the workplace: How do these traits contribute to long-term career success in a rapidly changing job market?

56. The role of goal setting in professional development: How can individuals establish and work towards achievable career objectives?

57. Understanding the concept of job security: How can professionals ensure stability and longevity in their chosen career path?

58. The impact of workplace culture on career satisfaction: How do a company’s values and environment influence employee engagement and success?

59. Defining the concept of professional growth: How can individuals continuously evolve and progress in their careers?

60. The importance of self-assessment in career development: How can regular self-reflection and evaluation contribute to professional improvement and advancement?

Definition Essay Topics About Health and Well-being

In this category, we will explore the various facets of health and well-being, delving into concepts related to the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of our lives. These topics aim to help you better understand the complexities of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as well as the challenges and triumphs associated with personal well-being.

61. Defining holistic health: How do physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects contribute to an individual’s overall well-being?

62. The concept of mental health: How can we better understand its importance in maintaining a balanced lifestyle?

63. The role of resilience in overcoming life’s challenges: How does resilience contribute to personal growth and well-being?

64. Defining mindfulness: Exploring the benefits and techniques for cultivating mindfulness in everyday life

65. The impact of social support networks on overall well-being: How do friends, family, and community shape our health?

66. The role of nutrition in maintaining good health: An in-depth look at the importance of a balanced diet

67. Defining self-care: How can taking care of ourselves contribute to a better quality of life?

68. The importance of sleep in maintaining physical and mental health: What does it mean to have a healthy sleep pattern?

69. Defining body positivity: How can embracing our bodies and accepting imperfections contribute to mental well-being?

70. The concept of work-life balance: How does finding the right balance between personal and professional life impact overall health and happiness?

71. The role of physical activity in promoting overall health and well-being: What are the benefits of regular exercise on the body and mind?

72. Defining emotional intelligence: How can understanding and managing our emotions lead to improved well-being and interpersonal relationships?

73. The impact of stress on health: How can we better cope with stress to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

74. The concept of self-esteem: How does one’s self-perception affect their overall well-being and life satisfaction?

75. Defining happiness: What factors contribute to a person’s overall sense of happiness and fulfillment in life?

76. The role of hobbies and leisure activities in promoting mental health: How can engaging in enjoyable activities contribute to our well-being?

77. The importance of social connections in maintaining mental health: How do our relationships with others shape our overall well-being?

78. Defining self-compassion: How can practicing self-compassion lead to improved mental health and resilience?

79. The impact of environmental factors on health and well-being: How does our environment affect our physical and mental health?

80. The role of spirituality and religion in promoting well-being: How can spiritual beliefs and practices contribute to overall health and happiness?

Definition Essay Topics About Environmental Issues and Conservation

Environmental issues and conservation are at the forefront of global concerns. As we try to understand and mitigate the impact of human activities on our planet, it becomes essential to define the key terms and concepts related to the environment. These definition essay topics will help you explore the terminology and ideas that shape the conversation around environmental issues and conservation.

81. Defining sustainable development: What are the key principles behind sustainable development, and how can it be achieved?

82. The concept of an ecological footprint: How do our individual choices affect the environment?

83. The meaning of biodiversity: Why is it essential for maintaining a healthy planet?

84. Climate change: What is the scientific definition, and how does it impact our lives?

85. Renewable energy sources: Define and compare various types of clean energy.

86. Deforestation: Explain the causes and consequences of deforestation, and how it affects our planet.

87. The role of recycling in waste management: How does recycling help reduce waste and protect the environment?

88. Environmental justice: Define the concept and its importance in today’s society.

89. The importance of conservation: What does it mean to conserve our natural resources, and why is it vital?

90. Ocean pollution: Define the different types of ocean pollution and their impact on marine life and ecosystems.

Definition Essay Topics About Ethics and Morality

Ethics and morality are essential components of human society that guide our decision-making and behavior. Defining these concepts helps us understand the values and principles that shape our interactions with others and our environment. These definition essay topics will allow you to delve into the nuances of ethics and morality.

91. Defining utilitarianism: What is the principle of “the greatest good for the greatest number” and how does it influence ethical decision-making?

92. The concept of deontology: Explain the duty-based ethical theory and its implications for personal and societal conduct.

93. The meaning of moral relativism: Explore the idea that moral values and principles can vary across cultures and societies.

94. Defining altruism: What motivates selfless acts, and how do they contribute to human well-being?

95. The ethical implications of lying: When is lying considered morally justifiable, and when is it not?

96. The role of empathy in moral decision-making: How does the ability to understand and share others’ feelings impact our choices and actions?

97. The significance of personal integrity: Define the concept and explain its importance in maintaining trust and credibility.

98. The ethics of animal rights: What is the moral basis for considering the rights and welfare of non-human animals?

99. Defining moral courage: What does it mean to stand up for one’s principles in the face of adversity or backlash?

100. The concept of virtue ethics: How do character traits and virtues shape our moral decisions and behavior?

40 Best Definition Essay Topics

Here are the best 40 definition essay topics you can use to get started. Whatever essay topic you choose, you should be interested in the subject and familiar with it. It would be great if you had your personal experience in the matter you are going to define. Here are just a few examples:

Sense of Humor
Team Player
Natural Beauty
Strong Leader
Perfect Couple
Peer pressure
Business woman
Social Media
Northern lights
Independence
Downshifting
Individuality

Feel free to use our examples to create your own definition essay. Our main aim to get you inspired. Sometime picking the right topic is the hardest. But writing can be a pure pleasure when you discuss the topic you really like and knowledgeable about!

457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips

A definition explains the meaning of a term or a concept. In a dictionary, you’ll find a definition in a single sentence. A definition paper, however, encompasses several paragraphs. Such an essay, amongst other things, can include personal experience and examples.

The picture explains what a definition essay is.

To write a successful definition paper, you need to provide a unique view of your chosen subject. In this article by Custom-Writing.org , we have compiled a list of the best definition essay ideas for high school and college students. We will also:

explain how to choose a topic;
give some writing tips;
provide a definition essay sample.   
🔝 Top 10 Topics
⭐ How to Choose a Topic
💭 Top 7 Prompts
👍 70 Easy Definition Topics
🏫 High School Topics
🎓 Definition Topics for College

🧐 Definition Argument Topics

🤯 Controversial Definition Topics
🎈 Funny Definition Topics
📚 Other Topics
✅ Essay Writing Tips
📑 Definition Essay Example

🔍 References

🔝 top 10 definition essay topics.

Can love be defined? 
Is empathy a weakness? 
Is optimism a strength? 
How do you define success? 
What is considered racism? 
What does it mean to be happy? 
What is independence for you? 
When does one become an adult? 
What does it take to be an ambitious person? 
How to know if someone is a perfectionist?

⭐ Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose

When it comes to papers explaining a concept, essay topics are notoriously hard to choose. How do you find a good idea to write about? Well, here are a few steps that you might want to consider while making the decision:

Choose a word with a complex meaning. For instance, notions such as “love” or “home” are hard to define because everyone has their own understanding of them.
Make sure the meaning of the word is arguable. Unlike “love” and “home,” words such as “coffee” or “hose” have a precise meaning you can’t really argue about.
Choose the word you are familiar with. You can educate yourself on the meaning of certain words before writing an essay, but it’s still different from incorporating it into your daily life.

So, let’s get started with our prompts and topics for a definition essay!

💭 Top 7 Definition Essay Prompts

Definition of love essay prompt.

Practically all people have felt love at some point in their life. However, what is love, exactly? How do you define it? Well, love is a term that encompasses various meanings and has different implications:

You can write about different characteristics of love. For instance, it can be all-consuming and passionate or tender and gentle.
There are various types of love, such as romantic and platonic, and you can explore them in your essay.
You may also dive into how love shouldn’t necessarily be related to another human being. One can also love certain activities or objects. 
Another widely discussed topic is the love language. You can write about how different people perceive and express their love.

Family Definition Essay Prompt

Family is another term that has a vast spectrum of meanings. Here are some ideas for your essay:

Talk about the difference between an immediate and a chosen family. For instance, you may think of family while referring to your parents or siblings. For others, a family can also be a group of people who love and care for one another. It doesn’t matter if they are related by blood or not.
You can talk about the traditional understanding of a family vs. the modern one.

Definition of a Hero Essay Prompt

People’s ideas of heroes and heroic qualities change throughout time. Consider discussing the following in your essay:

Look into the mythological roots of a hero and how Ancient Greeks described someone with heroic traits.
Talk about the modern understanding of a hero.
Is having superpowers a pre-requirement to being a hero, or can anyone spiritually strong and brave be called a hero?

Racism Definition Essay Prompt

Racism is one of the most permanent issues in society. It happens when people divide themselves into exclusive, separate groups according to their race and skin color. In your paper, you may discuss:

Talk about how the word “racism” when it comes to law and the legal system.
You can talk about the etymology of the word racism and how it came to be.
Discuss how racism is understood in philosophy, literature, and psychology.
Mention the differences between the implications the term “racism” has when it comes to social life and the law.

Home Definition Essay Prompt

If you look up the word “home” in a dictionary, you’ll see definitions like “a place where a person lives” or “a place where one originally comes from.” However, each person has a different understanding of what it actually means. Here are a few things that you can discuss in your essay:

You can write about your interpretation of the famous saying, “There’s no place like home.” 
Talk about the differences between “home” and “house.”
Explore how the word “home” is understood in philosophy, literature, and psychology.

Definition Essay: American Dream Prompt

American Dream is a concept that’s almost synonymous with the word America itself. This term and its meaning have been discussed since its first appearance in Epic of America in 1931. You can explore the following topics in your paper:

Discuss how the notion of the American Dream has changed and evolved throughout time.
Write about the concept of “4 freedoms for all” and how it has affected people’s perception of the American Dream.
You may also want to mention globalization and how it has affected people’s interpretation of the American Dream.

Kindness Definition Essay Prompt

The concept of what it means to be kind is debated in religion, philosophy, and psychology. Writing about this topic will allow you to contemplate and look at it from different perspectives. Here are some exciting ideas to consider:

Discuss the phenomenon of kindness and how it’s reflected in philosophy, religion, and literature.
Talk about the concept of kindness and its origin. You can see how people’s understanding of being kind has evolved through time. 
Interpret the phrase “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” You can discuss how this saying relates to people’s perception of kindness.
Talk about altruism and to what extent this principle reflects the meaning people attach to the word “kindness.”

👍 70 Best Definition Essay Topics: Easy & Exciting

What is anarchism?
What does “ commitment ” mean?
The ancient and modern concept of a healthy person.
Why does “break a leg” mean “good luck”?
How does the definition of mimesis change through time?
Define postmodern theatre and its elements.
What is the difference between Platonic and Aristotelian understandings of mimesis?
What is euthanasia, and how is it different from assisted suicide?
What is industrialization, and how does it affect our society ?
Define individualism from a psychological and sociological perspective.
How would you define grief?
What is the poetry of mourning ?
The concept of independence .
What does it mean “to narrate” in literature ?
Define liberalism as a political ideology.
How does the concept of family vary depending on the culture?
Egoism in psychology.
The meaning behind the phrase “ peace of mind.”
Interpreting Marxism.
What is metaphysics about?
How would you define modernism in theatre?
Define Nietzsche’s ideas of nihilism.
Define the abolitionist movement in Western Europe and the Americas.
The origin of the word “science.”
What is an eating disorder?
What is Ziggurat, and how is it important to the ancient Mesopotamian culture ?
What is anorexia?
The meaning of depression from a medical perspective.
What does bulking mean in sports?
People’s perception of sports as a hobby and as a career.
What does it mean to “do business”?
What is a kinetic sculpture?
Papier-mâché and its place in sculpting.
The concept of death and how it affects people’s perception of life .
What is the origin and meaning of the word arena?
Religion as a belief and an institutionalized notion.
Define pacifism and what it means to be a pacifist.
How would you define artistic works through philosophy?
What is cultural pluralism ?
What does it mean to be responsible ?
What is “common sense?”
Define the modern phenomenon of cyberbullying.
Ego and egoism: how are the two connected?
How would you define the word “rosary”?
Altruism and kindness: the definitions.
People’s understanding of success in the 21st century .
What is the Indian reservation, and what historical importance does it have?
Trauma in psychology.
What is the equality of rights?
The image of a contemporary vs. ancient hero.
What is democracy?
What is an argument in writing?
What does it means to lose one’s identity?
What is the meaning of identity in the cultural context?
The concept of time in history.
The perspective on time: linear and circular.
What does it mean to be confident ?
People’s perception of gender and the impact it has on society.
Define gothic literature and talk about its key features.
What does the word “taboo” means?
Define grotesque and its importance in art.
What is maturity in psychology?
A butterfly effect in chaos theory.
The meaning of ethics in philosophy .
What does it mean to “fancy someone”?
The understanding of science in ancient Greece and philosophy .
People’s interpretation of art and beauty in the Middle Ages.
What can be called poetry ?
What does it mean to “make a long story short”?
How people’s perception of war has been changing throughout history.

🏫 Definition Essay Topics for High School

What is global warming?
How would you define progress?
Define imperialism.
What is polynomial in mathematics?
How are the ideas of imperialism reflected in Orwell’s essay Shooting an Elephant ?
The meaning of the hippie movement in the 60s and 70s.
How would you interpret the saying “a friend in need is a friend in deed?”
What is the cultural meaning of the tea ceremony in Japan ?
Define teamwork in business.
What does it mean to be a good student?
What is mass culture as opposed to popular culture?
The meaning of the phrase “ natural beauty .”
What does it mean to be a good role model ?
What is self-confidence ?
Intellectual and intelligent: is there any difference?
What is popular culture ?
Social media and its influence on teenagers’ communication skills .
Define parenthood .
What is alliteration in poetry?
What does it mean to be a reliable person?
What is classical music?
How would you define happiness ?
Does social media increase people’s anxiety levels?
Why do smartphones decrease our attention span?
What can be considered an artwork?
Globalization in contemporary art .
The meaning and the usage of the term lithography.
Activism as an art form.
Explain the term decalcomania.
What does the expression “bite the bullet” mean?
What is biochemistry, and how is it used in nursing?
Astrophysics vs. astrochemistry: definition.
What is sarcasm?
How would you define antisemitism?
What does it mean to have a bad sense of humor?
What does it mean “ to oppress ?”
Define careerism .
What is housing segregation?
The concept of collectivism in communism.
The meaning of consumerism in the modern world.
What does it mean to be cynical?
Meaning of determinism in philosophy.
Define fascism during the Second World War.
What are the fundamental principles of fatalism?
The philosophy of finalism.
What is Hinduism?
The critical points of liberal discourse.
What does it mean “to exploit”?
What can be called “ realistic “?
What does it mean to be creative?

Feel free to explore our list of high school essay topics for more ideas.

🎓 Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Harlem Renaissance and Jazz Music.
Define Jazz culture in the ’90s America.
What is capitalism?
The meaning of calisthenics.
Define a nuclear family.
What is transcendentalism ?
Define surrealism in painting.
The relation between puritanism and capitalism.
What does it mean to have freedom of choice?
Capitalism vs. Communism : which one is more human-oriented? 
Does Jimi Hendrix’s performance of Star Spangled Banner in 1969 correspond with the definition of activism?
The philosophy of absurdism in Albert Camus’s works.
Impressionism vs. Expressionism: meanings .
How would you define a sense of responsibility ?
What is an operating system (Windows, Mac, etc.) ?
What does “a start-up” mean?
What is a farewell ?
Beauty standards in the 20 th century and medieval Europe.
Define the omniscient narrator in a novel .
How is French materialism different from American materialism?
Define the 3 rd wave of feminism .
Admiration and respect : differences in defining.
What is artificial intelligence?
Define the concept of memory in history and science. 
What is a genetic code?
Immunology and its impact on modern medicine.
What is gene therapy ?
What are prions?
How does drama translation differ from prose translation?
What is an extreme long shot, and how is it used in movies?
According to Structuralism, what are “Langue” and “Parole”? 
In your opinion, what is the main difference between Structuralism and Poststructuralism? 
Define the poetry of the Beat Generation.
The importance of Thought and Language in George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984 .
What is a loophole?
Define multiculturalism and its effect on society.
What is Brexit ? 
What is social identity?
How does social media affect people’s idea of attractiveness?
Male vs. female gaze: how it is used in cinema.
What makes something “addictive”?
Define the Silent Movie Era as opposed to sound films .
The meaning of the American Dream as depicted in road movies.
What is so unique about film noir ?
The meaning of mental health portrayed in movies and how it affects people’s perception of it.
What is online education ?
Hip-hop culture and b-boying: definition and historical roots.
Define modern poetry .
What is blues, and how is it different from jazz?
Define imagism in poetry.

Want more essay ideas? Check out our list of essay ideas for college students !

Science is not always precise.
Sports should be encouraged more.
Should uniform in school be obligatory?
What are the effects of global warming?
Pros and cons of the death penalty.
Do students benefit from assignments?
Ways to deal with drug abuse .
Why should childbirth be encouraged?
Natural food is more beneficial for health than manufactured products.
Children should be taught about sex from an early age.
Education has no actual value in the modern world.
Does the legalization of drugs have a positive or negative effect on society ?
Why is diet more effective than doing sports for losing weight?
Working out is beneficial for mental health. 
The Keto diet doesn’t work for everyone.
Weightlifting helps with weight loss.
Natural protein is better than protein supplements.
Does the level of emotional affect depend on gender?
The reasons why we should ban factory farming.
Animal testing is unethical .
Farm animals should not be treated with antibiotics.
Should vaccination be mandatory ?
Is there a way to store nuclear waste safely?
Plastic surgery reinforces beauty standards.
Is vaping less harmful than smoking?
Animal testing is a necessary evil.
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy .
Advertising can be considered an art form.
Animal euthanasia should be illegal.
There should be no mandatory military service.
Education should be free .
Is a vegan diet beneficial for your health?
Should parents limit screen time for their children ? 
Unpaid internships should be illegal.
Should teachers be able to express their political views freely?
Schools should start later.
Should the grading system be abolished?
Art should not be censored.
Video games can be good for children’s development.
It is essential to encourage kids to do sports.
Live-action movies are better than animated ones.
GMOs are not safe for consumption and should be banned.
Should children own personal mobile phones ?
Reading helps to develop creativity.
Group training and mental help services are essential for large organizations.
Does the use of outsourcing take away legal responsibilities?
Technology affects the way businesses deal with their failures.
Is it morally acceptable to advertise to minors?

When it comes to the definition argument essay, you may need to do a little more research and support your ideas with some strong arguments. First, you need to introduce the issue, state the claim and define the key term. Then you can present your arguments to prove your point and convince the reader. For more ideas, check out our list of argumentative topics .

🤯 Controversial Definition Essay Topics

What are the benefits of sex education in school ?
What is a polyamorous relationship?
The meaning of death penalties.
What can be considered a mental disorder?
Different perceptions of age in various cultures.
What is abortion?
People’s changing attitude towards childbirth.
Define assisted suicide.
What is taurobolium in religious cults?
The meaning and benefits of gun control.
Free journalism doesn’t exist anymore: is it true?
Define violence in video games.
What is internet addiction ?
The meaning of love in popular culture.
How polygamy is understood in modern society.
What is cannibalism?
The usage of the n-word: who has the right to say it?
The perception of underage marriages in different cultures.
What is artificial insemination?
What are the negative aspects of the feminist movement?
What is considered explicit content?
How would you define consciousness?
What is home-schooling?
Define prostitution in ancient Greece.
What is a prison in the cultural context?
What can be called “ censorship “?
Define “a man” and “a woman.”
Define climate change and its impact on social movements.
What is illegal immigration, and what are its leading causes ?
What is a “prescription drug”?
Vaping vs. smoking : definition.
What is an ethical zoo ?
Explain the meaning of the word “crime.”
What does the word “gender” means?
Define the word “orphan.”
Define the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
What does “gender-neutral” mean?
The meaning and benefits of conventional medicine.
Cancel culture: what is it ?
What is anorexia in a medical context?
The most common side effects of war.

Some issues cause controversy due to people’s divided opinions and feelings about them. You may want to pay special attention to those topics and be more careful while discussing them. For more ideas, check out our list of controversial issues .

🎈 Funny Definition Essay Topics

What does it mean to be an expert in gaming?
What are the implications behind the phrase “I got a nice job”?
What does “chilling” mean?
Describe the various meanings of the verb “to quit” and its usage.
Define the worst tattoo ever.
What kind of song can be called a love ballad ?
What does a “dirty joke” mean?
Define stand-up comedy .
How would you interpret the phrase “couch potato”?
Define humor in Family Guy .
What does “drama queen” mean?
Stereotypes and how they are used in movies and books.
What does it mean to “skip classes”?
What does “pulling an all-nighter” mean?
What are good drinking habits?
Reasons why silly movies make you feel good about yourself.
What does “friendship zone” mean?
In your opinion, what qualities does one need to have to be described as a player?
What does it mean to “have a crush”?
What does “to break up” mean?
Define femininity and its attributes.
What does the word “frenemies” mean?
What dishes can be called Mediterranean?
What does it mean to have a “cat nap”?
What is a horoscope, and why are people so obsessed with it?
How do you understand the expression “fake person”?
What does it mean to be attractive ?
What is a Quentin Tarantino movie?
What does it mean to be a narcissist ?
Where does the phrase “sweet tooth” comes from?
Define gen Z .
How would you define fashion ?
What does the phrase “Netflix and chill” mean?
What does it mean “ to cheat ” on someone?
Who are “boomers”?
What is WWE , and what social impact does it have on young people?
Define cringe comedy and what makes it special.
What does the internet slang word “simp” mean?
What is a good selfie ?
The meaning behind the “blondes are stupid” stereotype.
What does it mean to be a “ gym rat”?
What does it mean “to split the check”?
What is binge-watching?
What does it mean to be obsessed ?
What is lactose intolerance?
Define a trend and its social effect.

Need even more ideas? Find them in our funny topics list !

📚 Other Definition Essay Topics

Extended Definition Essay Topics

The meaning of sensitivity .
What makes a good husband ? 
How do you define a mature person? 
What does it mean to be a good person ? 
What makes someone trustworthy? 
What does it mean to be conservative ? 
How to know if someone is being sexist. 
What does it take to be charismatic? 
How do you define a happy marriage? 
What makes someone a hero ?
What is happiness for you?
Explain what it means to be a charismatic leader.
What is humor ?
How can we define laziness ?

Definitions can be extended, formal, or informal.

Describe the characteristics of true leadership.
Determine what can be called common sense.
What constitutes progress ?
What does it mean to be proud?
How can we define loyalty ?
Point out the implications of the word “pessimism.”
How do people show courage?
What does it mean to respect yourself?

Extended definition essays need enough room for elaborate explanation and illustration. Unlike ordinary definition papers, they are more general. Besides, they are open to discussion, counterarguments, and doubts. Because of this, abstract concepts are an excellent starting point for a paper.

Society Definition Essay Topics

What makes a good person ?
Explain how you understand equality.
How can you define globalization?
What does the term “white privilege” signify?
What does “family” mean?
Determine the meaning of the word “respect” in today’s society.
What does it mean to become an adult ?
What is feminism ?
When can a system be called just?
Explain what patriarchy is.
When is a child well-behaved?
What do the words “masculinity” and “femininity” mean to you?
What does the concept of the “glass ceiling” signify?
Determine how peer pressure manifests itself.
How can you define the term “mansplaining”?

Definition essays on society analyze social structures and human interaction. An individual’s perspective on society stems from various influences. It includes their cultural background, age, and gender. Choose one of the following prompts, and ask your relatives or friends what they think about it. You can find some additional helpful ideas in our sociology topics list .

History Definition Essay Topics

What can we call a revolution?
Define a hippie movement.
Explain who the Suffragettes were.
What was the Land of Punt?
What is colonization?
What does independence mean for a country?
What makes something “historic”?
Explain the “Lebensreform” movement of the 1920s.
Who were the Untouchables?
Which events designate the end of the Medieval Period?
Define the White movement during the Russian revolution.
What was the Arab Spring?
Explain who Joan of Arc was.
What does the term “Antebellum South” signify?
What was the Pastry War?

Learning from history is integral to progress. If we understand our past failures, we can shape a better future. Writing about history grants exciting insights into various issues. There are even more essay ideas in our history topics list .

Politics Definition Essay Topics

What does “ anarchism ” mean?
How does the system of checks and balances work?
Explain what constitutes liberal ideology.
How does democracy work?
How can you define monarchy?
Determine when a regime can be called totalitarian.
Define the meaning of the word “politics.”
What is McCarthyism?
What does it take to be a political party?
What are the implications of the word “democracy”?
Describe a society that can be called communist.
What defines a capitalistic system?

How do electoral systems work?
How can you define the term “witch hunt”?
What is Gerrymandering?

Definition essays on politics explore mechanisms of governance. There are only four major types of political systems, but there are infinite ways to implement them. Additionally, you can consult our list of compelling political topics to look into .

Mass Media Definition Essay Topics

The origin of the word “media.”
What does the term “ mainstream ” entail?
What is the purpose of broadcasting?
Define the different types of mass media .
What is cross-media publishing?
Define the term “publicity.”
What makes a good cover story?
Explain what television is.
Describe different types of news articles.
Define the word “communication.”
How does propaganda work?
What is gonzo journalism?
Come up with the definition of the word “sensationalism.”
What does “gatekeeping” mean?
How can you explain what “radio” is?

Mass media is various means of communication aiming to reach as much of the public as possible. Nowadays, it is nearly inescapable, which makes it an interesting subject to investigate.

Culture Definition Essay Topics

What does the term “ belief ” mean to you?
What makes a culture diverse?
How does a culture shock feel ?
How is the notion of “global village” defined?
What does “stereotype” mean?
What is “cultural appropriation” ?
What topics can be called taboo?
Explain the notion of “ zeitgeist. ”
What is “secularization”?
Define the word “ ritual. ”
What does your culture consider traditional values?
What does the notion of “civilization” describe?

Explain what cultural techniques are.
What is “ everyday life ”?
What type of culture is agriculture ?

Culture encompasses abstract notions such as rituals, norms, and manners. Simply put, it has everything to do with people’s way of living. Besides, it expands into the worlds of art, religion, and law. Want some more ideas? Read our extensive list of culture essay topics .

Science and Technology Definition Essay Topics

What are fossil fuels ?
How does an area become polluted ?
How can you define renewable energy sources?
Explain what the term “smart technology” means.
How does a CPU work?
Define the word “technology.”
What does the term “science” encompass?
What defines a vegetable?
What is energy?
What characterizes digital data?
How does blockchain work?
What is weather?
Explain the use of cryptocurrency .
Where did the term “ ecology ” originate?
Define the notion of time .

Technology becomes increasingly important with each passing day. The IT sector is developing particularly fast. For more inspiration, visit our page with topics on science and technology .

Sports Definition Essay Topics

What does it mean to be in shape?
What were the ancient Olympics ?

The first ever Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C.

Explain the difference between American football and rugby.
What makes a good chess player?
When does an activity become a sport?
Explain the word “agility.”
What are the typical forms of indoor sports ?
What is the Tough Mudder?
Define the difference between a sport and a game .
What does the term “fitness” signify?
What does it mean to be athletic?
When does a sport become a niche sport?
What is chess boxing?
What makes a good football player?
What constitutes the different types of wrestling?

Some enjoy sport as a healthy past-time activity. Others prefer to watch it on TV after a long day. With that in mind, it’s unsurprising that sport is one of the world’s biggest industries. You can find more ideas in our list of topics on sports .

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

How does boredom manifest itself?
What does it mean to be beautiful?
How can you define the word “ freedom ”?
What does “friendship” mean ?
Define the word “passion.”
What is devotion?
What does the notion of “home” mean to you ?
How can you define an aura?
Explain the Categorical Imperative .
What makes someone a villain?
Determine the meaning of the word “justice.”
What does it mean to love someone or something?
What acts show that a person is selfish?
What does it mean to be human?
How does hatred show itself?

“I know that I know nothing.” To this day, Socrates is the prime example of a philosopher. However, philosophy is much more than a profession of ancient times. If you like pondering abstract concepts, have a look at our list of philosophy topics .

✅ Definition Essay Outline Structure & Writing Tips

Definition essay: before you start.

Step #1: Select a topic.

First of all, if your teacher has not specified a theme, you need to select a topic. It can be a subject you know well or something you care about. A bit of research prior to choosing a theme can help pinpoint potential problems. A good idea would be to use a  topic generator for writing .

Step #2: Consider the audience.

Start by creating an outline and organizing your arguments. In doing so, keep your audience in mind. Ask yourself the following questions:

Who will read your essay?
What do they already know about the subject?
Are you addressing a specific group?

Identifying the audience helps to prevent under- or over-explanation. If you know who you are writing for, you know what kind of language to use.

Step #3: Choose a strategy.

Each type of academic writing has its own set of requirements. A definition paper needs to contain an explanation of a concept. Here are different strategies of explaining that you can use in an essay:

By denotation.  Denotation explains a term through its literal meaning. You can find it in a dictionary. Example: According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, nature is “a creative and controlling force in the universe”.
By connotation.  Connotation deals with the implications of a word. It can be positive, negative, or neutral. Have a look at this example: even though “old” and “vintage” have the same denotation, the connotation for “vintage” is more positive. Example: My grandfather calls himself vintage, but I just think he’s old.
By negation.  Negation defines what the term is not. Example: Freedom is not the absence of handcuffs.
By analogy.  An analogy juxtaposes two things that are similar to each other. Example: Socks are like cages for the feet.
By enumeration.  An enumeration is a list of words that serve as an explanation. Example: A hero is someone who is genuinely selfless, helps other people, and wears a cape.

Definition Essay Introduction

An introduction is the opening part of your essay, which sets the tone and piques the reader’s interest. In this part, you can briefly introduce the topic and develop a strong thesis statement.

Start with a nice hook that draws attention to the subject.
Follow it with a transition sentence that leads to the thesis.
A good thesis statement usually gives its reader a clearly stated definition. That way, they can prepare themselves for the discussion and easily follow your paper.

Definition Essay Body

The body of your essay is a part that includes all the information you want to present to the reader. How you divide your body paragraphs and how many of them you have in your paper depends on the topic and how you choose to present it.

Usually, the body consists of two to four paragraphs.
Each body paragraph needs to include a topic sentence, which explains to the reader what this particular paragraph will discuss.
Every new definition, idea, or argument should be explored in a separate paragraph. That makes your essay more cohesive and professional.

Definition Essay Conclusion

Wrap thing up with a good conclusion. This part of the essay usually summarizes most information from the body and reminds readers of the thesis.

The summary shouldn’t be elaborate or too long. Only mention the key points.
When you go back to the thesis statement, don’t use it in the exact same form, but rephrase the sentence while keeping the meaning.

📑 Definition Essay Example: Beauty

So we’ve mentioned all the essential points that can help you write a definition essay. Below, you will find an excellent sample you can use as reference or inspiration while working on your paper. You’re welcome to download the PDF file below:

Throughout centuries people have struggled to define the true meaning of beauty. This phenomenon has been and still is discussed in various literary works and movies. People strive to be beautiful, or they try to find beauty in their life. This essay will argue that beauty is an immense concept with aesthetical and sensual value and varies from person to person.

Definition of Beauty

We hope that this article will help you write a perfect essay! Don’t hesitate and start writing your own definition essay. If you have any questions or ideas on this topic, feel free to share them in the comment section.

How to Write a Definition Essay: St. Cloud State University
Definition Essay: Excelsior College OWL
Vocabulary: Political Words: Scholastic
Science and Technology: British Council
NTID-Supported Athletes at RIT: Rochester Institute of Technology
Glossary of Philosophical Terms: Oxford University Press
Basic World History Terms and Definitions: Quia
Essay Structure: Harvard University
The Definition Essay: Dallas Baptist University
How to Write an Introduction to an Essay: BBC
Definition Essays: Reed College
Essay Writing Tips: Deakin University
Essay Body Paragraphs: Massey University
Conclusions: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Negation: Stanford University
Enumeration: Literary Devices
“Denotation” vs. “Connotation”: What’s The Difference?: Dictionary.com
Before You Start Writing That Paper: University of California, Berkeley
Essay Planning: Outlining with a Purpose: San José State University
Writing an Outline for Your Essay: Carleton University
What Is Analogy? Definition and Examples of Analogy in Literature: MasterClass
Writing Your Conclusion: The University of Sydney
Identifying Audiences: Purdue University
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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

6 tips on how to write a great definition essay

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.

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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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70 Best Definition Essay Topics

Table of Contents

Content of this article

Introduction

A definition essay is an essay written by students in order to define some concept, term, or word. This essay explains something that is not well known.

The definition must be thorough and long. It is essential that you choose a word that will give you plenty to write about, and there are a few standard tactics you can use to elaborate on the term. The definition essay has a few parts: telling what term you are going to speak about, presenting information, and using facts, examples, or anecdotes that readers will understand.

First of all, if you are writing a definition essay you need to choose a topic that will be interesting. You need to remember that most physical object has definitions that are similar to most people, so you will write about something, that usually does not have a second opinion. At the same time, if you will choose some abstract thing as a topic for your essay, you need to know that this thing has a different meanings to different people. You need to pay attention to every detail when you are choosing a topic!

Did you Know we can help you Write Your Essay?

List of 70 definition essay topics:

Real estate
Christianity
American dream
Male chauvinism
Industrialization
Peer pressure
Juvenile delinquency
Contemporary art
Agriculture
Healthy living
Vegetarianism
Dictatorship
Corporate social responsibility
Micro-economics
Macro-economics
Bureaucracy
Persistence
Good parenting
Personality
Environmental conservation
Civil rights
Racial segregation
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Download definition essay topics in PDF
Download definition essay topics in DOCX

Since a definition essay is primarily focused on the explanation and meaning of the definite term or terms, the structure of the essay is focused on expounding the subject. Definition essays are mainly articulated in continuous prose from a subjective angle of the author. The structure must ensure a coherent and logical flow of ideas for each paragraph as the author continues to expound on the topic. Each paragraph should present a unique idea with a lead sentence and several sentences expounding on the idea presented by the lead sentence. The subsequent sentences must be logically connected to the topic and ideas the author presents in each paragraph. The paragraphs then have to introduce the subsequent ones and create a smooth transition between them to avoid losing the interest of the reader.

Tips on introduction writing

The introduction is worded and structured to attract the attention of the reader. Here are some tips on how to write a good introductory paragraph for a definition essay:

Ensure it has a thesis statement;
It should introduce the body paragraphs and create a smooth transition;
Avoid a lengthy introduction;
Do not bury the thesis statement deep in the introduction;
Avoid grammatical mistakes and ensure coherence of the definition in the introduction.

Tips on body paragraph writing

The body paragraph harbors many details on the defined term/ phrase. In this article, some key tips on writing body paragraphs of a definition essay:

Always create a smooth transition from each paragraph to the next;
Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence;
Each paragraph should be a few sentences in length preferable to four or five;
Avoid lengthy sentences they are likely to be ungrammatical;
Each paragraph should carry its own idea/opinion;

Tips on conclusion writing

There are necessary definition essay tips that can be instrumental to writing a great definition essay conclusion:

The conclusion should sum up the content of the entire essay and present the ;author’s unique definition of the subject/topic being discussed;
The conclusion should refer to contents previously written in the essay;
The conclusion of a definition essay can also reassert the thesis statement;
The conclusion should also be short and made up of few sentences;
Include a short summary of each key point used in the essay.

Does not matter what topic you will choose, what is really important: really believe that you will find your audience. The topic that you are going to choose needs to be interesting for you personally, in another case it would be really difficult to gather all facts and general information to make a good paper. You need to ask yourself: will my future work be interesting to read? Has my future essay a perspective become a reason for discussion? Is it possible to be serious in talking about this theme but not so much serious to put to sleep this one, who will read it? If the answers are yes, you have a good chance to write an outstanding definition essay.

Good Definition Essay Topics to Make a Great Paper

A definition essay explains the particular term to the readers. If you want to create a successful paper, you need to choose an interesting topic for your future work. In our article, you will find many ideas for definition essays writing. Follow our recommendations and read our list of brilliant topics!

Your primary goal is to define a particular term. There are various ways you can do it:

Define a term by function. It means you should give a detailed explanation of how something works.
Define a word by a structure. Explain how a particular item is organized.
Define a term by analysis. Compare the issue to other items and find differences.

And here are the main steps to create a good definition essay:

Related essays:

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Choose a particular term to define. Avoid words you do not understand because your goal is to explain the term clearly to your readers.
Work with additional sources (encyclopedias, vocabularies, etc.) to get all possible definitions of the phenomena you have chosen.
Explain in the introduction what term you’re going to define in your paper.
Write a body part: put details about the selected word in 2-3 paragraphs.
Make a logical conclusion.
Proofread your paper to correct mistakes.

100 Topics for Definition Essay — Successful and Interesting

Here is a list of 100 good definition essay topics we want to share with our readers:

Courage Definition Essay Topics

What is the meaning of the word “courage” in the modern world?
Moral courage vs physical courage.
Do heroism and courage have the same meaning?
What does the word “courage” mean to you?
How would you define a courage person?
The role of moral courage for a democratic society.
Do modern men have less courage compared to men of the 19th century?
Courageousness of people who fight an illness.
What losing the courage means to a soldier?
How does courage help athletes to win a competition.

Heroism Definition Essay Topics

The most bright example of the act of heroism.
Definition of heroism.
Can heroism be measured?
What does heroism mean to you?
Why is heroism important?
Definition of a real hero.
How does heroism help people to win the war?
What is the difference between heroism and bravery?
Define your own act of heroism.
Can women show acts of heroism?

Beauty Definition Essay Topics

Vision on beauty from different sources.
What does beauty mean to you?
Outer and inner beauty.
Why do all celebrities seem beautiful to us?
Beauty in the 21st century compared to beauty in the 18th century.
How can beauty change the world?
Define the most beautiful person.
What does it matter for a man to be handsome?
What does it matter for a woman to be beautiful?
The beauty of the body and beauty of the heart.

Privacy Definition Essay Topics

The meaning of privacy.
Privacy in the modern world.
What does privacy mean to celebrities?
Privacy on the Internet.
The matter of privacy for politics.
The issue of privacy rights for famous people.
Social media and privacy.
What does the word “privacy” mean to you?
Definition of complete privacy.
Privacy at home.

Fashion Definition Essay Topics

Definition of fashion.
How does fashion rule the world?
Fashion for different cultures.
What does fashion mean to you?
Define a fashionable person.
The fashion of the 21st century and 18th century.
What do fashion and style mean to the modern society?
Definition of fashion trends.
What does it mean to follow fashion trends?
What does fashion mean for men and women?

Respect Definition Essay Topics

What does it mean to you to have respect for elders?
Definition of the word “respect.”
Modern society and disrespect.
Definition of the respect for various nations.
What does it mean for kids to respect each other?
Define an example of respect.
Definition of a word “respect” from the English dictionary.
Respect for other people and respect for things.
The meaning of respect for our society.
Describe an example of respect for the work.

Honesty Definition Essay Topics

What is honesty?
The phenomenon of honesty and moral in modern society.
What does honesty mean to you?
Define an example of the honest person’s acting.
Can the honesty be different?
Honesty and truthfulness: are these terms equal?
Define an example of the act of honesty in your life.
Does the term of honesty change over time?
What does honesty mean to liars?
Difference between honesty and sincerity.

Home Definition Essay Topics

Definition of home for different people.
What does a word “home” mean to homeless people?
Meaning of home for modern people and a primitive society.
What do you think about while hearing a word “home”?
Definition of home and homeland.
What does a homeland mean to people?
Home and safety.
Is a word “home” associated with “castle” for you?
Old home and a new home.
What does home mean to kids?

Poverty Definition Essay Topics

Definition of poverty according to the dictionary.
Why is the term of poverty different for various people?
Poverty and poorness.
Definition of poverty of life.
The poverty of life compared to the poverty of mind.
What does the problem of child poverty mean to the government?
Definition of the poverty country.
Definition of the poverty level.
Why do so many people live in poverty?
Definitions of poverty and necessity.

Masculinity/Femininity Definition Essay Topics

The term of masculinity and femininity.
Machismo and masculinity.
Definition of femininity for various women.
Why do so many women show their masculinity instead of femininity?
Femininity and feminism.
Masculinity and men’s power over women.
Define feminine qualities.
Femininity in the modern society.
Masculinity in the primitive society.
What do the terms “femininity” and “masculinity” mean to you?

We hope you have got exciting ideas for your future paper after reading our article. Wish you good luck in writing a successful definition paper!

How to Write a Definition Essay
How to Write a Definition Essay: Steps, Tips + 100 Topics

How to Write a Definition Essay: Steps, Tips + 100 Topics

What Is a Definition Essay?

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When you are looking for a definition essay topic, you may notice that some interesting titles, topics draw you in. On the other hand, some topics are boring & they just pass over. This fact shows the importance of choosing a good definition essay topic and creating a good title when you are working on your paper. For some students, this kind of writing may seem hard. In this article, we will explain how to write a definition essay & we’ll give a list of successful examples of topics in different categories. Keep reading, find more information and get help with your writing.

It is a special kind of writing papers which is defining particular terms, in other words, a definition paper is a piece of writing that explains what some term means. For example, you may define the meaning of such words as “love”, “freedom”,”family”, etc. Some words have quite concrete meanings: table, paper, car, etc. But there are terms which are more abstract, convey extensive, complex concepts, meanings: happiness, honesty, justice. The explanation of these words depends on the situation in which they are used & on the point of view of a particular person.

A definition essay is a type of an academic writing paper, which takes minimum half of a page and looks similar to a detailed dictionary explanation but a bit more extended. It is not so complicated as it may seem at first sight but if you feel that it is hard for you or you are restricted in time, you may get a help from professional writers on any kinds of assignments, any topics.

Since in your paper you have to give a more extended explanation of a word that dictionaries give, it’s better to choose the broad term which will be defined. You can’t succeed with a paper if you choose the words like “cup” or “cheese” because you’ll be able to reveal only the specific & narrow meaning of a simple word. Always pick up broad terms. In this way, you are able to give many definitions of the same word, different opinions, give the explanation, and provide your own interpretation. Don’t forget to mention some examples from a real life to support your definitions. For example, Time management can be an interesting topic for an essay. You can find an essay on time management in our library and take it as an example.

Experts distinguish several groups of topics, choosing which you can develop a good paper for this writing assignment:

General Issues;
History, Politics, Governance;
Abstract Terms (Happiness Definition Essay);
Special Terms;
Topics on Society (Family Definition Essay);
Religion Issues;
Disputed Issues (Freedom Definition Essay), etc.

Now you've already learned what is a definition essay, time to discover how to write a definition essay, which steps you should follow.

This is the first step you experience in your writing process. Choose complex, complicated, broad term & you’ll have an opportunity to get a high grade. Broad, multiple meanings, an interesting history, origins will provide you with a success. Doesn’t matter you choose definition argumentative essay topics or common topics for definition essay, make sure your topic is complex. How to understand that the topic is good enough? If you realize that you can’t explain the word in 1-2-3 sentences, grab it, that’s the ticket.

First of all, provide explanations from well-known encyclopedias, vocabularies, dictionaries, textbooks. You can use the Merriam-Webster dictionary or any other trusted source. This will allow showing your audience the way in which the majority explains your topic.

Tell your reader what the term stands for in the introduction. Make him keep reading by showing that in this definition paper he will find interesting, alternative, sophisticated definitions.

This is the main part of your definition paper. Give full, detailed information on the chosen topic. Write 2 or 3 body paragraphs, do not overload your paper with unnecessary information, and don’t give definitions which are duplicating each other.

Find and provide several bright and sound examples which can interpret, show the definition. Explain your personal opinion on the topic.

Don't have inspiration? Buy essay online form academic experts and get a top-notch paper tailored to your instructions.

Before choosing the topic, explore all topic ideas meticulously and make a decision wisely;
Make paragraphs of your definition paper logically united with the help of transition words, phrases;
Choose words with multiple meanings or multi-dimensional words. It is great if a word has a lot of synonyms – you have a chance to shine a light;
The dynamic definition is also a good idea. They are more complex than static ones. For example, a definition essay on love will give you a great deal of room for creativity;
Provide examples from a real life;
Proofread, edit your work, avoid errors in grammar;
Make an in-depth research: historical research gives you the understanding of the origin and meaning of the topic.

In order to learn how to write a definition essay, you should know the structure of an effective paper. Read about it in this section of the article. A well-written definition assignment purely focuses on the explanation of the specific term and should be created according to the following structure:

Introduction;
Thesis statement;
Conclusion.

A definition paper as any other type of writing assignment has to have an outline. Why do you need it? With its help, you can distinguish the complexity of the topic, the length, structure of the body part.

This introductory part should contain the main explanation of the word given by a well-known, trusted dictionary. Search in online dictionaries or find it in the library. Develop your own context of the definition paper and give the official meaning which suits. It is also a good idea to start with a hook – some interesting details which can motivate your reader to read your work. You can use:

Persuasive statistics;
Interesting fact;
Metaphor or literary quote;
Famous people's stories or cities, etc.

It has to build a smooth type of transition and introduce the body paragraphs.

The thesis statement is the main argument of the definition essay which the student should provide at the end of his introduction. It doesn’t have to be a regular thesis statement, as you know in the definition paper you should not prove anything. The main goal of this kind of paper is just to explain the term. Simply decide on the clearest, complex explanation and make it your thesis statement.

The writing process becomes more straightforward when it comes to writing your body part. All you need is just conducting research and nailing down explanations of definition in a logical way. Share different points of view and explain the whole meaning for the word. Each idea or point of view should have a separate paragraph. The structure of the body part can be the following:

1 claim: it includes the first entire meaning;
2 claim: includes another aspect of the term;
3 claim: includes the third opinion or explanation of the term.

You can tell about the origin or the history of the term in body paragraphs. Also, give your own definition.

In conclusion, you should summarize all meanings of the word which you reveal and come to a single conclusion. Add a short summary, analysis of explanations and restate the thesis statement which you provided in the introduction.

We have given you tips on how to write a definition essay, here you can find extraordinary definition essay topics from different categories. Find extended definition essay topics, definition essay topics for college and many others on our list.

What is a family
What role does the family play in a modern society
Childfree couple: can it be called a family
Does a happy family have distinguishing features
Bloodline – is it necessary for being a family
Family obligations: who is the main in the family
Extended families: their role in people’s lives
Small, medium, & big families
Social Media : influence on a family
Single parenting: can one parent be a family
Parents’ love & development of the kids’ personality
Meaning of love in a family
Love: a common interpretation
The modern concept of love: influence of the same-gender relationships
First love: its influence on people’s lives
Love: reality or a fairy tale?
Love & long-distance relationships
Qualities of love
Love: a way of harmonization of a person
Love & trust
Freedom: general meanings
Freedom & communism
Meaning of freedom for a modern youth
Freedom & Independence
Does everyone deserve freedom
Freedom for today’s society
Freedom & happiness: what is the main & what is a derivative thing
Freedom & justice
Is it possible to feel freedom if you live in a modern society system
Freedom: why some prisoners prefer to stay in a prison
Happiness as a motivation for success
Happiness & influence of family
Happiness: common meanings
Happiness as a main positive feeling
Happiness: the influence of a happy childhood on a personality
What does happiness mean for a modern person
Happiness & money in a modern society
Happiness: what does it consist of
Can a person be happy without love
How can you define a happiness
Laziness & student’s life
Respect: meaning for a relationships
American dream: general meaning (Consult: American dream essay )
Right to privacy & social networks
Loyalty & family relationships
Fashion: influence on teenagers
Racism: different aspects of the term
Terrorism: one of the main problems of the 21st century
Healthy living - a way of life or new religion
Maturity: does it depend only on the age
Caring parents or despots: punishment measures
Social Media, modern society, & communication
What is common between self-development & self-assurance
Downshifting – can it be called as a person’s way of development
Procrastination: how can we overcome it
Hostility & a real friendship – how to recognize
Falsehood and secrecy in a relationship
When a person can be called honest
Modern education: is it able to develop individuality of a student
Dependence & individuality of minor kids
Charisma: why it is important for a manager
Team player or individual performer: which skill is more important
Natural Beauty: why it is important to save it in the era of plastic surgery
Ambitions: the most important what a young specialist may have
Using electronic devices in a class
Racism: reasons why it should be stopped all over the world
Death penalty: is it acceptable in the modern world
Place of women in modern business
Corporate culture: why it is a competitive advantage
E-commerce as a future of business
Cell phone applications for studying
The healthy way of living: the general explanation of the meaning
What is a good job: which factors should be taken into account
Second language: obligatory skill for a high-educated person
Happy marriage & its influence on the person’s success
Love & its meaning for teenagers
College degree: is it necessary for a success
Democracy: is it a condition of a freedom
Career or family: can a person succeed in both
College application: why it is important to impress

Find out more about College Essays here.

You can choose these topics if you already know how to write a definition essay, you’re good at it & you are sure about your writing skills.

Peace of mind
Political correctness
Frustration
Sense of humor
Sportsmanship
Individualism
Self-respect
Trustworthy
Responsibility (read about how to write an essay about responsibility here)
Peer pressure
Human Cloning
Creative mind

We have provided the most successful examples of topics from different categories. We also told you how to write a definition essay. So you’re holding all the cards now. But if you don’t feel confident, or you face some problems with your writing assignments, you can turn for a help, our professional writers will accomplish any kind of an academic paper at the highest level without any delays. Just place your order, give us your details & get a perfect result by your deadline.

If you wonder how to write a short essay, it’s similar to drafting other academic papers with one main difference. It should be about 1 page or 500 words. Because of its length, a short essay requires a catchy topic to attract a reader’s attention (don’t choose complex ideas due to limited space). I...

Categorizing things is important to see the differences and similarities between them. What is a classification essay? That is a good question if you wish to obtain higher grades. The article from writing gurus explains how to write a classification essay, things to cover, topics to choose from, and...

Informative essay writing is an art that every student needs to master. In order to graduate from any educational establishment, one has to accomplish a lot of writing assignments successfully. Thus, essay writing skills are of utmost importance when it comes to student’s academic performance and gr...

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150 Creative Definition Essay Topics For College Students
Unique Definition Essay Topics. The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures. The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe. Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort. The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film. The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
200 Interesting Definition Essay Topics & Ideas
A definition essay is a type of essay that seeks to define and explain a concept, term, or idea. The goal of this type of essay is: to explain the meaning of a concept, term, or idea. to examine how a concept, term, or idea is defined by different people and groups. to analyze the implications of a particular definition.
250+ Definition Essay Topics Ideas for Students
History Definition Essay Topics List. Revolution: Catalysts and Consequences. Empire: Rise, Dominion, and Decline. Renaissance: A Rebirth of Culture and Knowledge. Nationalism: Its Impact on World History. Colonialism: Legacy and Liberation. Industrial Revolution: Transforming Societies and Economies.
100+ Amazing Definition Essay Topics for Students
However, to write a definition essay, you need to first come up with a good topic. A good definition essay specifically defines an idea, word, term, or concept. It defines the paper topic in a way that becomes easily understandable for the reader. It can be written for both types of words that have concrete or abstract meanings.
20 Definition Essay Topics That Go Beyond the Obvious
The definition essay is deceptively simple. All you need to do is define a term or concept. But a definition essay is more than a simple dictionary definition. A definition essay extends the definition by providing examples to help readers understand the term or concept being defined. Let me say that again: a definition essay uses an extended ...
Uncovering Endless Inspiration for Your Essay
Key Aspects of Good Definition Essay Topics. Choosing the right definition essay topic can be as daunting as searching for buried treasure. However, when it comes to writing a definition essay, the quest for the perfect topic becomes an art in itself. So, what are the key aspects of a captivating definition essay topic?
Definition Essay
An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay. It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader. The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.
200 Best Definition Essay Topics
Top 200 Definition Essay Topics For All. April 20, 2021. Essay writing can be hard if you don't have the right essay topics. Most students need to make sure they choose a topic that they can adequately research, organize, and write about. A definition essay is a type of writing assignment that asks students to define a term, concept, or idea.
Definition Essay Examples and Topic Ideas
Learn the structure of a definition essay and read two examples of essays about concrete and abstract concepts. Dictionary ... Review the example essays below and try exploring some of the suggested essay topics, too. Definition Essay Structure. You can follow the general structure for an expository essay when writing a definition essay. ...
Definition Essay Topics: Step By Step Guide
A definition essay is a common writing assignment in schools and universities. Put simply, It asks a student to choose a word and define it in-depth. The common dictionary definition is the first thing to state (in your own words), then the lesser-known meanings of the concept, followed by personal anecdotes and opinions further explaining the ...
60 Writing Topics for Extended Definitions
Pride. Beauty. Greed. Virtue. Progress. A good (or bad) boss. A good (or bad) parent. Cite this Article. These 60 topic suggestions for extended definition essays go beyond dictionary entries using analysis, anecdotes, and examples.
How to Write a Definition Essay: Explanation, Tips, & Examples
Body Paragraphs. Aspect 1: Start with the broader or general outlook. Definition: Provide a detailed explanation of the first aspect. Examples: Offer relevant examples, anecdotes, or scenarios to illustrate the concept. Aspect 2: Move on to a specific dimension. Definition: Delve into the details of the second aspect.
100 Definition Essay Topics Ideas & Examples for Students
There are 10 categories with 10 topics in each: think about which appeals to you more and feel free to pick anything that sounds good. Family Definition Essay Ideas. Love and family often go together, but family life also has numerous problems. Choose any of these definition essay topics for college and explore this concept from the angle you like.
Top 100 Best Definition Essay Topics
In a nutshell, the core goal of definition essays is to explain a chosen word, phrase, or complex to the reader. Therefore, students must carefully study and analyze the desired concept to achieve this goal. Some of the key things to include in your essay are: A common dictionary definition (in your own words) Origin of the term.
200 Definition Essay Topics: Best Ideas & Prompts
A definition essay is a paper that explains the meaning of an idea, word, or term. It can also be described as an intricate dictionary that not only defines a term but also provide in-depth explanation and illustrations. Definition essay topics are the primary subject matters in a definition essay.
100 Topics to Inspire Your Next Definition Essay
In this article, we present 100 definition essay topics covering diverse areas such as art, literature, technology, leadership, education, health, environmental issues, and ethics. These topics will not only help learners develop a deeper understanding of the world around them but also challenge their critical thinking skills and help them make ...
40 Best Definition Essay Topics
Here are the best 40 definition essay topics you can use to get started. Whatever essay topic you choose, you should be interested in the subject and familiar with it. It would be great if you had your personal experience in the matter you are going to define. Here are just a few examples: Kindness; Sense of Humor; Love; Charisma; Team Player ...
457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips
Find excellent extended definition essay topics in this helpful article! 👍 Learn how to write A+ essays ️ with our definition essay topics for high school & college. ... 270 Good Descriptive Essay Topics and Writing Tips. As simple as it is, the purpose of the descriptive essay is to explain or portray its subject. ...
Definition Essay: The Complete Guide with Essay Topics and Examples
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.
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Download definition essay topics in PDF; Download definition essay topics in DOCX; Structure. Since a definition essay is primarily focused on the explanation and meaning of the definite term or terms, the structure of the essay is focused on expounding the subject. Definition essays are mainly articulated in continuous prose from a subjective ...
Good Definition Essay Topics to Make a Great Paper
A definition essay explains the particular term to the readers. If you want to create a successful paper, you need to choose an interesting topic for your future work. In our article, you will find many ideas for definition essays writing. Follow our recommendations and read our list of brilliant topics! Your primary goal is … Good Definition Essay Topics to Make a Great Paper Read More »
How to Write a Definition Essay: Steps, Tips + 100 Topics
Step #1 : Start with choosing a good topic. Step #2 : Apply primary sources. Step #3 : Disclose term in the introduction. Step #4 : Reveal the term in the body paragraph. Step #5 : Provide vivid examples. Writing a Definition Essay: Striking Tips.
How to Write a Definition Essay: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Here are the six steps for writing your definition essay: Choose a word. Look up your word in the dictionary. Ask other people what they think your word means. Look for uses of your word in movies, commercials, magazines, literature, or social media. Analyze the different ways people define this word.

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

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'Freedom' as a Topic

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What is Love - Eternal Topic

History Definition Essay Topics List

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Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

What is a Definition Essay?

Definition Essay Types

Descriptive Definition Essay

Stipulative Definition Essay

Analytical Definition Essay

Persuasive Definition Essay

Explanatory Definition Essay

Extended Definition Essay

How to Write a Definition Essay?

Definition Essay Structure

Introduction

Body Paragraphs

Types of the Term/Concept