definite article

noun

, Grammar.

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

definite article

noun

1. See indefinite article
   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

The new film, which has been described as less of a sequel than a soft reboot, boasts more than a definite article.

From Washington Post

The omission of the definite article—“the Jews”—while small, is significant.

From The Daily Beast

The expression appears to be precise, although there is no definite article in the language.

From Project Gutenberg

The definite article made it necessary for the writer to specify what particular chair of Sacred Rhetoric he meant.

From Project Gutenberg

Guipuzcoan and Biscayan for arno, arnoa, wine, the final a being the definite article.

From Project Gutenberg

The is the definite article, since it points out a particular individual, or group, or class.

From Project Gutenberg

The indefinite article is used, like the definite article, to limit two or more modified nouns, only one of which is expressed.

From Project Gutenberg