definite article

noun

, Grammar.

1. an article, as English the, that classes as identified or definite the noun it modifies.

definite article

noun

1. grammar a determiner that expresses specificity of reference, such as the in English Compare indefinite article

definite article

1. The word the ; the article that precedes names of specific items: “the dog,” “the boats,” “the heavy anchor.” ( Compare indefinite article .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of definite article¹

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

Coach Ron Rivera likes to use the definite article “the” when describing his young quarterback.

From Washington Times

Apparently, it doesn’t even warrant a definite article.

From New York Times

Leading with such a very definite article instead of calling it "Suicide Squad II" signals that it is the only one that matters.

From Salon

Her choice of definite article was criticised by Usigrai, the main trade union at state broadcaster RAI, as well as by Laura Boldrini, a feminist centre-left lawmaker and former speaker of the lower Chamber of Deputies who was always known as "la presidente" in that role.

From Reuters

Dogmatism even infects discourse about what is now suddenly termed “the science,” placed beyond debate by the definite article.

From Washington Post