defining

[ dih-fahy-ning ]

adjective

1. decisive; critically important:

   Taking a course in architecture was a defining turn in her life.

Other Words From

• nonde·fining adjective
• self-de·fining adjective

Example Sentences

Ms Riley's name became a rallying cry for conservatives as border security emerged as a defining issue in the White House race.

From BBC

Pushing away the slurry water with a bristled brush became a defining image.

From BBC

The former boyband members share some of their most exciting adolescent moments becoming some of the defining faces of pop music.

From Salon

Other defining characteristics include its distinct curvature and the fact that it could move around -- seen by trace fossils in the surrounding area.

From Science Daily

Sinfield was part of the first line-up of King Crimson, whose 1969 debut In The Court Of The Crimson King is widely regarded as one of the defining progressive rock albums.

From BBC