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Defining Moments

By Vera H-C Chan
Tue, July 08, 2008, 9:37 am PDT

Searching for definitions online has long been a quick and dirty method to finding meaning. It's tempting, though, to read something deeper into the seemingly random patterns of "define."

For instance, questions about "define nursing paradigms" likely stem from an educational assignment, but is there deep societal frustration that gives rise to the flurry of "define complacent" or "define apathetic" queries? Are people looking for standards once and for all when they inquire, "define what is blogging"? What Parker spurred the aggrieved "define nosey"? And can there be a succinct response to "define what is man"?

These questions, and less, come from pondering words out of context. Take a look at some definitions people have sought in the past 30 days. This should be the last word on the subject of words, for the time being.

 Disciplined Queries  Million-Dollar Words
1. Define What Is Physical Education  1. Define Obsequious
2. Define Chemistry 2. Define Pugnacious
3. Define Technology 3. Define Cantankerous
4. Define Physics 4. Define Pulchritudinous
5. Define Biology 5. Define Magnanimous
 If You Have to Ask...  Deep Thoughts... Really Really Deep
1. Define Research  1. Define Love
2. Define Ethics 2. Define Presence
3. Define Antidisestablishmentarian 3. Define Reminiscing
4. Define Integrity 4. Define Melancholy
5. Define Provocative 5. Define Optimistic

Filed under: Words, Dictionaries, Meaning

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