possible topics for definition essay

Definition Essay Writing

Definition Essay Topics

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

12 min read

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.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

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

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

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.

Found a topic but don’t have time to write an essay?

Well, fret no more, we have got your back!

Hire a professional definition essay writer from MyPerfectWords.com. We are a professional essay writing service that provides high-quality academic papers and essays at reasonable prices.

So, don’t wait, and hire our writing service today!

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

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.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Essay Guides
Essay Topics

Definition Essay Topics: 200 Ideas for Students

Speech Topics
Basics of Essay Writing
Other Essays
Main Academic Essays
Research Paper Topics
Basics of Research Paper Writing
Miscellaneous
Chicago/ Turabian
Data & Statistics
Methodology
Admission Writing Tips
Admission Advice
Other Guides
Student Life
Studying Tips
Understanding Plagiarism
Academic Writing Tips
Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Research Paper Guides
Formatting Guides
Basics of Research Process
Admission Guides
Dissertation & Thesis Guides

Table of contents

Use our free Readability checker

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 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?

Suffer from writer’s block?

Your unique essay is just a few clicks away!

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

Can’t come up with a topic for you paper? We’ve prepared a collection of essay topics for you

Want to write a winning essay but lack experience? Browse our free essay samples

Popular request:

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.

Take a break from writing.

Top academic experts are here for you.

How To Write An Autobiography Guideline And Useful Advice
182 Best Classification Essay Topics To Learn And Write About
How To Manage Stress In College: Top Practical Tips
How To Write A Narrative Essay: Definition, Tips, And A Step-by-Step Guide
How To Write Article Review Like Professional
Great Problem Solution Essay Topics
Creating Best Stanford Roommate Essay
Costco Essay – Best Writing Guide
How To Quote A Dialogue
Wonderful Expository Essay Topics
Research Paper Topics For 2020
Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

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.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

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:

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

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:

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 20% off your first order!

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 !

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

📚 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
Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to LinkedIn
Share to email

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. It can focus on any topic or issue you want to write about. Be sure that any middle school, high school, or college student can manage this type of creative writing assignment!...

Rhetorical analysis essay focuses on assessing the method used for delivering a message. This assignment isn’t about giving an opinion on the topic. The purpose is to analyze how the author presents the argument and whether or not they succeeded. Keep reading to find out more strategies and prompts for...

164 Narrative Essay Topics for School & College Students

A narrative essay tells a story about a series of events. At the core of this kind of essay can be a personal experience or a fictional plot. Any story can be a basis for a narrative essay! Narratives can look similar to descriptions. Still, they are different. A descriptive...

Similar to the instructions in a recipe book, process essays convey information in a step-by-step format. In this type of paper, you follow a structured chronological process. You can also call it a how-to essay. A closely related type is a process analysis essay. Here you have to carefully consider...

150 Classification Essay Topics and Ideas

In a classification essay, you divide the subject into categories. To create these categories, you single out certain attributes of things. You can classify them according to their characteristics, themes, or traits. Sounds complicated? Be sure that any high school or college student can manage this type of essay!

Throughout your high school years, you are likely to write many evaluative papers. In an evaluation essay you aim is to justify your point of view through evidence.

Immigration is a permanent move to a foreign country. It takes place all over the globe, including the United States. It played an important role in history, and it continues to influence society today. This article offers a variety of immigration essay topics. They are suitable for college-level works, as...

440 Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Should you buy a green or a red apple? Before making a decision, people often compare their options. In a compare and contrast essay, you analyze the similarities and differences between certain things. In this article, you’ll find interesting and easy compare and contrast essay topics for college, high school...

An opinion essay requires a student to present a point of view on a chosen subject and back it up with substantial evidence. Like in a debate, the writer has to give their opinion and defend it while using scholarly resources. This article will help you find a good opinion...

120+ Micro- & Macroeconomics Research Topics

It would be great if economics in college would just teach you how to save and make money. In reality, however, students usually write research papers on micro- and macroeconomics topics to learn about the production and consumption of goods on an international level.

417 Business Topics & Research Titles about Business

The corporate world is the world of the future – there’s no doubt about that. And education in ABM will help you conquer it! What is ABM strand, exactly? ABM stands for Accountancy, Business, and Management. Future leaders and entrepreneurs pursue education in this field to learn the skills essential...

201 Research Topics on Psychology & Communication

If you are a psychology student and you think that Mindhunter is just not good enough, you are not alone! Psychology is one of the most exciting research areas. It is one of the reasons why Custom-writing.org experts prepared as many as 191 psychology research topics! 🔝 Top 10 Communication...

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!

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.

Struggling with your Definition Essay Homework?

Get your assignments done by real pros. Save your precious time and boost your marks with ease.

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

Did you like our inspiring Definition Essay Guide?

For more help, tap into our pool of professional writers and get expert essay editing services!

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.

Featured Posts

Cause and effect essay topics.

180 Persuasive Essay Topics

150 Narrative Essay Topics

How to Write a Definition Essay: New Guide with Samples

Have you ever found it difficult to explain certain words or ideas? That's because understanding them isn't always easy. To avoid confusion, it's important to really understand the words we use and be able to explain them well.

That's why teachers often assign definition essays in high school and college. But these essays aren't just about repeating dictionary definitions. They dive deep into complex terms, exploring their rich backgrounds and meanings.

In this article, our rewrite essay service will cover different types of these papers, give you practical tips for writing them, and even provide examples to simplify this journey for you!

What is a Definition Essay

A definition essay is a type of writing assignment where you explain the meaning of a specific word or concept. Instead of just giving a simple definition from the dictionary, you dive deeper into what the word really means and explore its different aspects.

For instance, if you're tasked with defining 'success,' you might discuss what success means to different people, how it can vary based on cultural or societal norms, and whether it's purely based on achievements or encompasses personal fulfillment as well.

The purpose of writing definition essays in school is multifaceted. Firstly, it helps you refine your understanding of language by encouraging you to analyze words more critically. It also fosters your ability to think deeply and express complex ideas clearly. Additionally, it cultivates your skills in research, as you may need to gather evidence and examples to support your interpretation of the word or concept. Now that we've cleared the definition essay meaning, let's explain its common types in detail.

Definition Essay Examples

Here's a definition essay example from our custom essay service to help you understand what a good paper looks like. Take a look at how it's structured and formatted if you want to use it as a reference for your own work. And if you're interested, you can always buy essay cheap and get high-quality paper from our platform anytime.

Stuck on Words?

Our writers excel at turning ordinary ideas into extraordinary narratives.

Commonly Used Definition Essay Types

When choosing an intriguing term with a rich historical background for your definition essay, it's essential to carefully consider your options and determine the most effective approach. Here are some common types, as suggested by our dissertation writing help :

Analysis : Break down the topic into its constituent parts and define each part separately.
Classification : Determine the categories under which the topic can be classified.
Comparison : Highlight the uniqueness of the topic by comparing and contrasting it with more common subjects.
Details : Identify the key traits and distinctive qualities that best encapsulate the central idea of your essay.
Negation : Clarify what your topic is, not to narrow down its definition.
Origins and Causes : Explore the historical origins and background of the concept, examining where it first appeared and any relevant historical details.
Results, Effects, and Uses : Discuss the consequences, effects, and practical applications of the subject matter.

How to Write a Definition Essay

Just like with any writing, a definition essay structure involves an introduction, body, and conclusion. But what makes it interesting is what you explore in the body paragraphs.

For example, you could organize your definition essay outline by discussing the term from various angles. Start with a personal anecdote or story that illustrates the term in action. Then, provide a definition from a reputable source like a textbook or scholarly article. Next, consider interviewing people from different backgrounds to get their perspectives on the term. You could also analyze how the term has evolved over time, looking at historical examples or cultural shifts. Finally, offer your own interpretation of the term, drawing on your own experiences and insights.

For a more in-depth guide on writing a definition essay, let's explore the following sections provided by our experienced research paper writer .

Definition Essay Introduction

In the beginning stages of a definition essay, your reader gets their first taste of what your topic entails. It's crucial that this introduction is both informative and captivating, setting the stage for the rest of your essay. Here's what you need to include:

Start with something attention-grabbing, like a thought-provoking question or an interesting fact.
Provide a brief overview of the topic and why it's important to define it.
Clearly state the term you're defining and your interpretation of it.

Definition Essay Body Paragraphs

In your essay, break down the phrase into its different parts, look at it from various angles, and then provide a relevant explanation. Depending on what your assignment calls for, you might need more than three paragraphs. Feel free to mix up the order or add sections depending on how complex the term is. Here are some ideas for what you can include:

Start by talking about where the term came from and how it has changed over time. Understanding its origins can give insight into its meaning and significance.
Look up the official definition of the term and compare it to your own understanding. This can help clarify any differences and give a broader perspective.
Share your own thoughts and interpretation of the term, using examples or stories to illustrate your point. Your personal experiences can add depth and context to your analysis.
Find a definition or explanation from an expert or scholar in the field and discuss how it aligns or differs with your own perspective. This can provide credibility and further insight into the term.
Explore how the term is used in popular culture and what it reveals about societal values and beliefs. This can shed light on how the term is understood and interpreted in different contexts.

Definition Essay Conclusion

In the concluding paragraph, you should tie everything together neatly. Here's how you can structure your conclusion:

Remind the reader of your main points and why the definition of the term is important.
Highlight how having a clear understanding of the term can influence our thoughts and actions. This is where you show the broader significance of your analysis.
Encourage your audience to apply the term accurately in their own discussions and advocate for precision in defining terms within their communities. This empowers readers to take action based on what they've learned.

Tips for Definition Essay Writing Process

Now that we're nearing the end, you might have already grasped how to write a definition essay. However, if you still feel like you're threading a needle while wearing mittens, fear not! Our essay writer has laid out some nifty guidelines to help you ace this challenge:

Choose a term with depth, something that's not ordinary but has a rich backstory and multiple meanings. Think of it like picking a word that's like a Russian nesting doll – there's plenty to explore.
Use vivid language to paint a picture that engages the senses. For instance, when talking about 'love,' describe the warmth of a hug, the sweetness of Valentine's chocolates, or the sound of laughter with a partner. It helps your readers feel like they're right there with you.
Explore both the positive and negative associations of your term. Words aren't simple; they come with different meanings. For example, 'power' can mean strength and influence but can also be linked to negative things like abuse and control.
Use real-life examples to make your points clear in your definition essay. Whether you're talking about successful people from different fields or sharing stories that illustrate 'love,' concrete examples help readers understand.
Be creative with your approach. Use metaphors, illustrations, or humor to keep things interesting. Remember, it's your essay – make it come alive!

Final Words

As we wrap up, we trust you've grasped the ins and outs of how to write a definition essay and feel inspired to tackle your own. Nobody wants to be left scratching their head over complex topics, right? So why not leverage our academic writing assistance to your advantage? Whether you need help brainstorming extended topics, crafting a sharp analytical piece, or any other form of writing, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to confusion and ignorance – Order essay and let us guide you toward clarity and knowledge.

Want to Get Your Task Done ASAP?

Leave us a notice and get help from professional writers!

How to Write a Policy Analysis Paper Step-by-Step

Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose the Best?

What Is a Definition Essay? ‍ Definition Essay Structure

How to choose a topic?

Topics by Category

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.

Just don't feel like it? Let us handle your task and go on with your life!

Maybe you need to write an expository essay but don't know how to do it, we recommend that you read our guide.

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 the write my paper service, you must choose the right topic category that aligns with the purpose of your academic writing.

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.

Political Science Degree: Curriculum, Prices, and Career Prospects

How to Write an Expository Essay?

How to Write a Sociology Essay?

Law Essay Topics: From Business and International Law to Law Enforcement

PowerPoint Ideas for Students: Interactive Learning Adventure

Informative Speech Topics: 100+ Best Options

Multimodal Essay: Student's Comprehensive Guide

How to Write a Discussion Board Post?

Annotated Bibliography in APA Format

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:

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:

Body Paragraphs

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

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.

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.

Conclusion

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

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.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

Privacy Policy
Cookies Policy
Terms of Use
Refunds & Cancellations
Our Writers
Success Stories
Our Guarantees
Affiliate Program
Referral Program
AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

60 Writing Topics for Extended Definitions

These essays go beyond dictionary entries using analysis and examples

Writing Essays
Writing Research Papers
English Grammar
Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
B.A., English, State University of New York

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
Learn How to Use Extended Definitions in Essays and Speeches
Discover Ideas Through Brainstorming
The Use of Listing in Composition
How to Explore Ideas Through Clustering
Prewriting for Composition
30 Writing Topics: Analogy
Compose a Narrative Essay or Personal Statement
501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
40 Topics to Help With Descriptive Writing Assignments
Great Solutions for 5 Bad Study Habits
How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph
What Is Depth of Knowledge?
Thesis: Definition and Examples in Composition
Instructional Words Used on Tests
Definition and Examples of Paragraphing in Essays
Tips for Writing an Art History Paper

Translators
Graphic Designers
Editing Services
Academic Editing Services
Admissions Editing Services
Admissions Essay Editing Services
AI Content Editing Services
APA Style Editing Services
Application Essay Editing Services
Book Editing Services
Business Editing Services
Capstone Paper Editing Services
Children's Book Editing Services
College Application Editing Services
College Essay Editing Services
Copy Editing Services
Developmental Editing Services
Dissertation Editing Services
eBook Editing Services
English Editing Services
Horror Story Editing Services
Legal Editing Services
Line Editing Services
Manuscript Editing Services
MLA Style Editing Services
Novel Editing Services
Paper Editing Services
Personal Statement Editing Services
Research Paper Editing Services
Résumé Editing Services
Scientific Editing Services
Short Story Editing Services
Statement of Purpose Editing Services
Substantive Editing Services
Thesis Editing Services

Proofreading

Proofreading Services
Admissions Essay Proofreading Services
Children's Book Proofreading Services
Legal Proofreading Services
Novel Proofreading Services
Personal Statement Proofreading Services
Research Proposal Proofreading Services
Statement of Purpose Proofreading Services

Translation

Translation Services

Graphic Design

Graphic Design Services
Dungeons & Dragons Design Services
Sticker Design Services
Writing Services

Please enter the email address you used for your account. Your sign in information will be sent to your email address after it has been verified.

How to Write a Definition Essay (Plus Topics You Can Use and a Sample Essay)

Beginning an academic program can be an overwhelming prospect, particularly if you are uncomfortable with writing academic essays. Most programs will require multiple writing assignments on a weekly basis, with different types of essays being assigned based on the class content and professor's preferences. You'll need to be able to research a topic, create an essay outline based on that research, and write the essay using your research and outline as your guides.

Some essay assignments are a lot easier than others and the definition essay is one such type. A definition essay is exactly what it sounds like it should be: An essay you write to provide your reader with the definition of a word. However, it's more in-depth than simply writing a dictionary definition. You'll need to be able to put the definition in your own words, as well as provide examples of how that word is used in various contexts. You'll also need to be able to discuss the connotation and denotation of the word, which are terms we will clarify below.

So, let's look over some common questions academic writers have about a definition essay and clarify them.

A definition essay goes beyond simply stating a word's dictionary definition.

What is the typical length of a definition essay?

Since the purpose of a definition essay is generally limited to defining one word, the length of the essay should be around 1 to 2 pages, if double-spaced. Within these paragraphs, you will cover various aspects of the definition, including how the word can be interpreted in multiple contexts and some examples of the word in a sentence.

What is included in a definition essay?

Although a definition essay is meant to define a word, you can't just copy the dictionary definition and be done with it. For a definition essay, you'll need to use your own words to define the term, including its connotation and denotation. Putting the definition in your own words makes your definition essay more interesting to your reader, who could just look the word up in the dictionary if all they're interested in is a dictionary definition.

Dictionaries also don't include multiple examples of the word used in context, so adding this element to your definition essay makes it more interested for your reader, allowing them to learn something they might not otherwise learn.

What is the difference between connotation and denotation?

Obviously, in order to include these within your definition essay, you need to understand the difference between the two. Below, we cover the definitions of connotation and denotation, as well as offer some examples of how this terminology applies to vocabulary words.

Connotation

According to Merriam-Webster (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/connotation), the connotation of a word is:

1a. something suggested or implied by a word or thing; 1b. the suggesting of a meaning by a word apart from the thing it explicitly names or describes

According to Merriam-Webster , the denotation of a word is:

1a. A direct specific meaning as distinct from an implied or associated idea

Connotation vs. denotation

So, when looking at the difference between the two, you have to consider how the English language contains words that have both a literal and implied meaning. For example, when we look at the word "home," we can consider its literal definition (or denotation), which is a building that is someone's (or a family's) living space.

However, when we consider its metaphorical meaning, we think of "home" as a place of security and comfort, such as "this place feels like home." In this sense, we are using the word's connotation instead of its denotation, or literal meaning.

How should I outline my definition essay?

Even though your definition essay will be around a page or two, at most, in length, you'll still need to follow a typical essay outline when writing it. A typical essay outline includes the introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Thus, your definition essay outline might look something like this:

Mention the purpose of the essay (which is to define the term)
A thesis statement that covers both the connotation and denotation of the term (in your own words)
The origin of the term and other etymological information the reader might find interesting
The denotation of the term (in your own words)
Offer examples
The connotation of the term (in your own words)
A brief restatement of the definition of the term
Additional information about the term your reader would find interesting

What are some possible definition essay topics?

If you're given the opportunity to determine your own topic for the definition essay assignment, it's a good idea to pick a term that you are familiar with, can define in your own words, and can discuss at length. Here are some ideas:

How do you define world peace?
What is your definition of family?
What does the word "ego" mean to you?
What is social media and how is it best defined?
Define nanotechnology
What is depression?
What is your definition of a hero?
How would you define a successful career?
What is a team player and how would you define one?
Define Capitalism and what it means to you.

Sample definition essay

Below is a sample definition essay for the word "love". Since many terms have several possible definitions and connotations, for a more interesting definition essay, try to choose a word that is not easily defined.

Sample Essay

The word "love" is used in various contexts and can mean different things to different people. There are also different types of love that are referred to in Ancient Greek writing that span everything from unconditional love to obsessive love. This essay will take a look at the meaning of the word—both its denotation and connotation—and explore some examples of how the word might be used in context.

With Germanic origins, the word "love" comes from the Old English "lufu." The root is a mix of Indo-European words, including the Sanskrit word "lubhyati," which means "desires," the Latin word "libet," which means "it is pleasing," and the Latin word "libido," which means "desire."

Merriam-Webster online offers several definitions of the word. Love can be a strong affection for another person based on familial or sexual ties. It can also be an attachment or devotion to an object or person. Thus, the denotation of the word "love" is an extreme affection or attachment to another based on shared history, family connection, or intimacy. In this sense, one might say: "I love my wife and want what's best for her."

The word "love" could hold various connotations for someone, depending on their experience with the emotion. For some, "love" might be a goal in a relationship or a feeling that is intensely intimate and important. For others, "love" could be something to avoid to keep from getting hurt or opening one's self up to potential betrayal. Beyond these associations, the word "love" can also be used when referring to an object or activity that one values or enjoys. For example, "I love going on walks by the beach" or "I love the architecture on this building" are ways the word "love" could be used in a sentence to show an affinity for an activity or object.

The Ancient Greeks believed that there were different types of love and labeled them based on the various emotions that one might feel toward another. For them, love was divided into: Agape (unconditional love), Eros (romantic love), Philia (affectionate love), Philautia (self-love), Storge (familiar love), Pragma (enduring love), Ludus (playful love), and Mania (obsessive love).

Ultimately, the word "love" can mean different things depending on context and the speaker's association with the word. While its most common definition refers to a close tie and intimacy with another person, it can also be used in reference to an affinity for an object or activity. In this situation, it's often used as synonymous with the words "like" or "enjoy" instead of referring to a close, intimate connection or feeling for another person.

Mastering Research Paper Outlines: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Prove a Thesis Statement: Analyzing an Argument

Academic Writing Advice
All Blog Posts
Writing Advice
Admissions Writing Advice
Book Writing Advice
Short Story Advice
Employment Writing Advice
Business Writing Advice
Web Content Advice
Article Writing Advice
Magazine Writing Advice
Grammar Advice
Dialect Advice
Editing Advice
Freelance Advice
Legal Writing Advice
Poetry Advice
Graphic Design Advice
Logo Design Advice
Translation Advice
Blog Reviews
Short Story Award Winners
Scholarship Winners

Need an academic editor before submitting your work?

Do My Assignment
Pay For Essay
College Paper
Our writers

Posted: 26 May, 2017

Definition Essay: How-To, Structure, Examples, Topics

Many students look at definition essays as being an 'easy' way of getting a grade. It may look simple, but writing a good definition is more than just writing description. Use this guide to get the most out of your essay and get the highest grades possible.

Table Of Contents

What is Definition Essay?

Definition essay structure, how to write definition essay, definition essay topics, definition essay examples.

A definition essay is an essay that gives the reader a detailed definition of a term or idea. A good essay will be well researched, and draw on relevant evidence and examples in order to define something properly. They can often be used to define something abstract, such as the idea of 'freedom'.

Each essay will differ depending on the topic, but they'll usually follow the same basic outline:

Introduction: This is where you introduce the topic you're defining. You'll usually start with the dictionary definition, in order to give yourself a starting point.
Thesis definition: Here's where you'll give a more nuanced definition, based on your understanding and research.
Main body: Each paragraph will deal with a different aspect of defining the term. You can start with a paragraph detailing the history and origin of the topic, move onto a full dictionary definition and usage, and then finally create your own personal definition, based on what you have learned.
Conclusion: This will draw all your main points together, without introducing anything new.
Choose the term you want to define. This may be given to you, or you'll need to choose it for yourself. Make sure you pick a term that you can easily research around.
Do your research. The best way to start is to look up several different definitions of the term, and see how it's usually used. Then, you can start reading more widely to expand on your knowledge.
Write an outline, like the one above. This will give you the roadmap to your essay, and make it a lot easier to write.
Sit down and write. Choose somewhere quiet and free of distractions, in order to get the most out of your writing time. If it's too hard then leave it to essay writing services and concentrate on other tasks.
Proofread and edit your essay once it's done. Make sure there're no errors lurking in your text that could affect your final grade.

As noted earlier, topics for these kinds of essays are usually an abstract idea or theory. You could be given a topic such as 'Love' or 'Laziness' to define. These are broad enough in scope that you can interpret them as you see fit, as long as you have the evidence to back it up.

It's a good idea to practice writing definition essays. Here're few topics that you can try yourself:

A good marriage
Good and evil
Enlightenment

Practice these, and see how you handle them. When it comes to the real thing, you'll be ready.

With this guide, you can now write an excellent definition essay. Remember to do your research, and give yourself enough time to finish the task.

How to Write a Definition Essay

Wondering how to write a definition essay? Well, this task won't be an issue for the students who know this paper differs from other types of assignments, such as an expository essay definition or a narrative essay definition. Even though most academic papers require thorough research and difficult terms, the definition essay is slightly different. It doesn't require substantial scientific knowledge and technical skills — its primary goal is to define a specific term. According to our essay writers , the problem is that you can't just copy the definition from the dictionary. Instead, you need to use your writing skills and creativity.

When writing a definition essay, it's highly recommended that you show your personal opinion, just like in a definition analytical essay, about the term being described and provide some real-life examples. In the following article, you will get all the ins and outs of how to write a definition essay. Our essay paper writing service experts will provide you with some useful tips on how to make your definition paper interesting and informative. Here is what you will learn from the article:

How to write a definition essay
How to select the right topic
How to define the complex terms in your definition paper

If you stick to the tips provided in this article, writing a definition essay will become an easy and fun task for you. We guarantee you'll complete it without trouble in the shortest time. Alternatively, you can pay for college essay and relax. So, let's delve deeper into the nuances of writing an excellent definition essay.

What Is a Definition Essay

Simply put, a definition essay clearly describes the term supported by facts, examples, and arguments. The definition essay aims to define a specific term, concept, or idea. Such an essay should not be limited to a dictionary meaning — it should contain an extended definition. The main idea here is that you expand the readers' knowledge and give them new information about the word being described. You need to focus on providing your readers with the information they can't find in a regular dictionary. On the other hand, a definition argument essay, just like an argumentative essay definition, aims to convince the reader of something while simultaneously defining a subject. It necessitates the development of an argument for definition essay themes that center on an ill-defined or controversial subject.

Definition Essay Structure

Sticking to a specific structure is especially important when writing a definition paper. Proper essay structure is very helpful when presenting your ideas in an order that makes the most sense to the reader. Usually, the structure of a definition essay is very similar to the structure of other creative assignments, such as a synthesis essay , explanatory essay, and other types of essays.

Definition Essay Outline

When talking about a definition essay structure, the first thing that comes to mind is a definition essay outline. An outline is a plan of your definition paper. Its primary goal is to organize the main points into paragraphs so it'll be easier for you to write the essay. Creating an outline is not as difficult as it may seem at first glance. It consists of the same parts as any other academic paper, which are:

Introduction

Thesis Statement

Body Paragraphs

How to Start a Definition Essay

The definition paper starts with an introduction. Keep in mind that your essay introduction should include several crucial elements. First and foremost, you should start your paper with a clear explanation of the term you chose to describe. The best way to do that is to find a dictionary definition of the concept (make sure to use only credible sources). This way, you establish context and a foundational understanding of the word.

You may wonder what to do if the chosen term has several meanings. In this case, professionals from different writing services recommend picking the meaning you like most and adding your personal view on the term you will explain. Then, try to give your interpretation of it.

Another idea worth implementing is mentioning something intriguing at the beginning of the essay. Let your imagination run wild — it can be a curious fact, a famous quotation, shocking statistics, a short anecdote, or even a real case regarding the topic.

Overall, the introduction should be brief and informative. Finally, it should conclude with a precise thesis statement, explaining what the essay will discuss with your readers.

A definition essay does not have a regular thesis statement since the one who is writing it doesn't need to prove anything. If your goal is to write a good definition paper, then you just need to add a primary assertion of your work to the last sentence of the introduction section. If you study in one of the best colleges for astrophysics or any other - our thesis statement should just define the term in your own words.

The body of the definition essay helps you think of the essay argument in different ways and look at the term from a different angle. What's great about such an essay is that you can think of the chosen theme from various perspectives. In the end, you will probably pick the easily understandable one.

You can create two, three, or more body paragraphs in your definition essay — it all depends on the complexity of the chosen term and your writing skills. Provide as many facts about the chosen word as possible. In addition, you can provide a few meanings of the word if necessary for a better understanding of the subject.

A broad investigation and deep understanding of the topic are also highly recommended when working on a definition essay. Focus on making your readers aware of all the contextual interpretations of the term. Try to uncover all the essential facts about the word. Even though definition papers must be based on facts, sharing your personal vision on the subject is highly welcomed. What we can suggest here is looking through numerous different sources, including books, dictionaries, scholarly articles, educational websites, etc. The main idea here is to develop a deep understanding of the topic before you begin writing your paper.

Writers from our custom essay writing service prepared some useful tips you may follow when writing the body of your essay:

A new idea is always a new paragraph
If the term that is being defined has several meanings, you better explain them all
Use examples from your life
Provide various points of view to support the core information

Conclusion

A definition essay must have a proper conclusion. As mentioned before, the main goal of your work is to provide your readers with a complete definition of the chosen term. Your conclusion must summarize the information that was outlined in the essay.

You may describe how the word you chose influenced your life. Readers love intriguing facts from other people’s lives and appreciate the sincere attitude. You can also rephrase the thesis statement and make a larger statement about the term in your conclusion.

Definition Essay Sample

Here is a definition essay sample:

Definition Essay Topics & Ideas

One of the challenges you may face when writing a definition essay is choosing the right topic. Whether you choose to write a freedom definition essay, or discuss personal definition of your life experiences, you should be interested in the subject and familiar with it. A great essay topic will capture your reader's attention and make them read your piece until the end. Try to discuss terms with broad definitions in the extended definition essay topics. Avoid words that have only one meaning. It would be great if someone from your circle of friends had a similar experience in the matter you are going to define.

The great news is that today there are plenty of terms to describe. Although some words are crystal clear and don't require an explanation, many abstract and scientific terms can still become a topic of discussion. For example, such concepts as love, happiness, trust, and empathy may be difficult for some people to explain. Check out some useful tips on how to choose the proper topic for your definition essay:

Try not to use general words that don't have hidden meanings
Make sure your essay is based on facts
Add a list of references
Choose topics that are familiar to you

Typically, there are two types of terms students usually choose when writing a definition essay: concrete and abstract definitions. Let's take a look at each of the following:

Concrete concepts - describe concrete terms, such as people, places, things, events, etc. For some students, it is much easier to describe concrete words than abstract ones. There are tons of concrete things to write about - almost everything that surrounds us in real life. What's more, when choosing to describe concrete terms, research is happening to be much easier, as there are a lot of known facts in history, science, and so on. Some examples of concrete concepts are cat, table, pen, phone, painting, tree, cake, cup, etc.
Abstract concepts - refer to an idea or concept that doesn't exist in the real world (physically) and cannot be touched. Students who describe an abstract concept should be ready to use their imagination and brainpower. In most cases, describing abstract nouns is a bit more complicated than describing concrete nouns. On the other hand, describing something abstract brings so much excitement! Imagine how fun it may be to describe something you can't see, hear, taste, touch, or smell. Some examples of abstract nouns include liberty, love, anger, freedom, generosity, charity, democracy, etc.

Tips on How to Write a Definition Essay

Once you have chosen a term you would like to describe and have researched it, the next step is to select the way to describe your subject matter. Even though there are dozens of ways you can define the chosen term, your goal is to think about how to describe it in a decisive and precise manner. Use your vocabulary and creativity. Imagine if the reader had no other sources aside from your definition paper. Your essay is all he or she has to acquire information about the term. After readers have read your essay, they should be able to have a clear understanding and assurance that now they understand what you are talking about and can explain the term in their own words.

Top 3 Ways to Describe the Term

Defining a term according to historical facts. One of the ways in which you can describe the chosen word is by using historical facts and events in order to support your point of view. Try to describe the subject from its roots and origin.
Defining a term according to its use. Another great way to describe the subject matter is to explain why it’s important in our daily lives. As it often happens, sometimes describing how the thing works and impacts our lives is enough to understand its meaning.
Defining a term based on a comparison. You can also describe something by comparing it with the same class of words. For instance, you can emphasize what sets the subject apart, how it stands out, and what makes it special. Compare it with other words of the same class and point out differences. This distinction often clarifies the definition.

More ideas to consider when writing a definition essay:

When explaining a term, try not to blatantly copy its standard dictionary definition. Instead, focus on providing readers with your own definition of what is being discussed.
Select terms or concepts you understand or the ones that have had an impact on you personally. Do not try to define a difficult term for you to understand. By doing so, you will only confuse your readers and fool yourself. Think of a definition that would be uniquely yours. Don't be afraid to give non-standard explanations — that approach will give you good results.
An effective way to describe a term is by explaining its functions and structure. You can even try to define a term by specifying what it does not mean.
If the chosen term has a broad meaning, try to narrow it down. For example, you may need to write many pages to define the term 'love' adequately, but if you limit your topic to 'self-love,' it will be much easier to craft your definition paper.
Another thing worth considering when writing an essay is proofreading. The best thing about the proofreading stage is that it allows you to eliminate numerous mistakes and take a fresh look at your writing. If you can, show your essay to your parents or a friend. Maybe they will notice any grammar or lexical mistakes you didn't see. We are all human beings, and nobody is perfect. Creating a list of references and running your essay through plagiarism detection software are also recommended. When drafting a list of references, you can adhere to the Chicago Citation Style, MLA, or APA Citation Styles.

Examples of Definition Essays

Take a look at some possible topics for your next definition paper. Note that the examples below are about abstract concepts. When writing a definition paper, you can explain a concrete concept as well. It’s all up to you!

Example 1. What is Fame

People interpret the concept of fame differently. Some associate it with wealth, others — with celebrities, richness, something important and well-known. You can use great anecdotes or even movies that devote to the matter to an extent. Do you know any famous people? How do people explain fame? When can you say about the person that he or she is famous? Do you want to be famous? These are the kinds of qualitative questions that are interesting to delve into because of the theme.

Example 2. Explain the Concept of Kindness

There is a famous proverb by Mark Twain that goes: “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see” – do you agree with it? Explore this concept of kindness. What counts as kindness, towards ourselves and other people, and which behaviors might seem like kindness but do more harm than good? Is being kind the same as being nice? Try to find a definition of kindness that you can get behind and support with your reputable facts.

We hope we managed to explain how to write a definition essay. Now you know how this type of academic paper differs from other essays and what writing style and format to choose when preparing such an assignment. You can start with simple terms and then try to explain more complex words. Practice makes perfect, and you will definitely improve your writing skills with time.

Tips and ideas outlined in this article are tailored to enhance your writing and help you get better grades. However, if you experience some difficulties with this task, our team of professional writers is always ready to help you create a first-class definition essay from scratch. To buy essay , all you need to do is visit our website and select the type of essay you require. Welcome to our cost-effective service! All you need to do is visit our essay writing service website and select the type of essay you require. Welcome to our cost-effective service!

Frequently asked questions

She was flawless! first time using a website like this, I've ordered article review and i totally adored it! grammar punctuation, content - everything was on point

This writer is my go to, because whenever I need someone who I can trust my task to - I hire Joy. She wrote almost every paper for me for the last 2 years

Term paper done up to a highest standard, no revisions, perfect communication. 10s across the board!!!!!!!

I send him instructions and that's it. my paper was done 10 hours later, no stupid questions, he nailed it.

Sometimes I wonder if Michael is secretly a professor because he literally knows everything. HE DID SO WELL THAT MY PROF SHOWED MY PAPER AS AN EXAMPLE. unbelievable, many thanks

New Posts to Your Inbox!

Stay in touch

We use COOKIES to make your user experience better.

By staying on our website, you fully accept it. Learn more » It's OK

how it works
Our guarantees
Our benefits

Impressive Definition Essay Topics

Much as the title suggests, definition essays are a type of essay that explain and define some particular thing and they are based on a specific topic or subject. Generally speaking, these essays are fairly straightforward. A lot of professors ask their students to submit definitions essays as a way of showing how well they understand the essay's subject. This genre of an essay does not require any (or much) in-depth thinking or analysis.

So, how does one go about defining something in an essay? The previous paragraph suggests the process is quite easy. However, some effort is required to get a good grade. The process begins with the writer choosing a word, term, or phrase that is interesting and one they are willing to undertake some research on. It is advisable to select a new or slightly abstract word since these will help you learn about a topic you are not already very familiar with i.e. it is a way of acquiring knowledge. Next, having decided on a word or term, you need to look it up in a dictionary, or perhaps in a couple of dictionaries. The explanations provided in dictionaries can differ from one dictionary to another so it makes sense to check the explanations in several so that you can compare them. It may be that you want to consult friends or members of your family to see if they know and are able to explain what your chosen word means. Make a note of the definitions provided by the individuals you interview. Another useful way for finding out what a word means or how it is used is through sections of the media e.g. in magazines, newspapers, movies, and so on. Needless to say, one of the best sources of useful and reliable information is books. Then you can begin writing when you have done all your research.

Below are some possible writing prompts for a definition essay.

General Topics for a Definition Essay

Love and what it means.
The best way to define respect.
How would you define judgment?
What are the ingredients of true friendship?
Define hate - its characteristics and nature.
Describe what it means to be successful.
How different people define happiness.
What are the traits of a real hero?
What is meant by courage?
The different ways of interpreting beauty

Topics for a College-Level Definition Paper

How getting a college degree matters in every student's life.
Living healthily: What things would you include?
What makes a marriage happy?
The freedom to make choices.
Worthwhile jobs: What factors contribute to employee satisfaction?
Mobile applications for learning and education.
How to write a successful application for college.
What qualifications do college professors need?
What is meant by love of the platonic variety?
Why more than one language is necessary.

Ideass for an Argumentative Definition Essay

The causes of mass murders and what can be done to prevent these.
An explanation of the death penalty and the pros and cons of this method of punishment.
How the smoking of cigarettes is defined by professionals in the healthcare industry.
The benefits and pitfalls of cell phone usage.
Should creationism be included as a possible new subject in schools?
Racism and the segregation of racial groups.
What can be done to ensure elections are fair?
What is meant by CSR (corporate social responsibility)?
English as the USA's official and primary language.
Have we lost control of the practice of cheating?

Topics for an Extended Definition Essay

What is meant by the following term(s):

Healthy attitude
Privacy rights
Self-assurance
A true friend
Love - how would you describe this?
Bad coaching
The characteristics of a hero
Good timing

Topics for a Definition Essay on Material Culture

In the history of Museums, which age is the "Golden" one?
The creation of hierarchy and an examination of the features of cultures other than Western culture.
How material culture began and how it is has progressed.
Describe the first studies on material culture.
Discuss the museums of Pitt Rivers and the contribution Rivers made to material culture.
Trace the history of ethnographic works and collecting culture.
The influence of Georg Simmel on material culture and his role in this field.
An in-depth examination of interdisciplinary studies.
Describe cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary influences on material culture.
How is material culture and anthropology connected?
Trace the progress of material culture throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Explain how material culture evolved in tandem with societal evolution.
How are society and culture portrayed through objects?
Explain the arrangement of the Life-Group model.
How is it possible to trace the whole of mankind back to one origin?
Explain how material culture has developed over the years.
What role did Franz Boas play in the recording of material culture?
Explain early thinking on material culture and how this school of thinking was first established.

We are reliable custom writing service (essays, theses, courseworks, research papers, etc of the supreme quality).

Every paper we produce is written from scratch, so you would never meet someone with your work.

Our qualified in all major areas writers are really passionate about their job - that's why every assignment we created is the real masterpiece.

Above, you see several samples of common topics that students base their definition papers on. It may be that you are given this type of assignment as part of your college coursework or for test purposes. The list is endless - a great many words have several intricate meanings and/or can be interpreted in a number of different ways.

The sample topics provided in the above list should be sufficient when you need to produce a winning assignment. For the best possible grades, we recommend combining at least two of these topics (or possibly more) and we advise you to pay careful attention to your essay as you write. In the event, you are unsure about the correct writing style or pattern for your work, feel free to check out our expert guide to writing definition essays . The tips you find in our guide should help you to write successful essays.

The idea is to choose a term you will define, one you are comfortable writing about and one you find interesting and you think others will be interested in. Do your best to avoid the most common pitfalls and mistakes. It is possible to become a good essay author with nothing more than the assistance of your word processor or pen! Best of luck with your writing!

Finally, you can order the definition essay just for $11/99 page. Check how much your future paper would cost:

Live Chat Order Now

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

Knowledge Base
Generate topic ideas for an essay or paper | Tips & techniques

Generate Topic Ideas For an Essay or Paper | Tips & Techniques

Published on November 17, 2014 by Shane Bryson . Revised on July 23, 2023 by Shona McCombes.

If you haven’t been given a specific topic for your essay or paper , the first step is coming up with ideas and deciding what you want to write about. Generating ideas is the least methodical and most creative step in academic writing .

There are infinite ways to generate ideas, but no sure-fire way to come up with a good one. This article outlines some tips and techniques for choosing a topic – use the ones that work best for you.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Understanding the assignment, techniques for generating topic ideas, tips for finding a good idea, other interesting articles.

First, you need to determine the scope of what you can write about. Make sure you understand the assignment you’ve been given, and make sure you know the answers to these questions:

What is the required length of the paper (in words or pages)?
What is the deadline?
Should the paper relate to what you’ve studied in class?
Do you have to do your own research and use sources that haven’t been taught in class?
Are there any constraints on the subject matter or approach?

The length and deadline of the assignment determine how complex your topic can be. The prompt might tell you write a certain type of essay, or it might give you a broad subject area and hint at the kind of approach you should take.

This prompt gives us a very general subject. It doesn’t ask for a specific type of essay, but the word explain suggests that an expository essay is the most appropriate response.

This prompt takes a different approach to the same subject. It asks a question that requires you to take a strong position. This is an argumentative essay that requires you to use evidence from sources to support your argument.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Getting started is often the hardest part. Try these 3 simple strategies to help get your mind moving.

Talk it out

Discussing ideas with a teacher, friend or fellow student often helps you find new avenues to approach the ideas you have and helps you uncover ideas you might not have considered.

Write down as many ideas as you can and make point form notes on them as you go. When you feel you’ve written down the obvious things that relate to an idea, move on to a new one, or explore a related idea in more depth.

You can also cluster related ideas together and draw connections between them on the page.

This strategy is similar to brainstorming, but it is faster and less reflective. Give yourself a broad topic to write about. Then, on a pad of paper or a word processor, write continuously for two or three minutes. Don’t stop, not even for a moment.

Write down anything that comes to mind, no matter how nonsensical it seems, as long as it somehow relates to the topic you began with. If you need to, time yourself to make sure you write for a few minutes straight.

When you’ve finished, read through what you’ve written and identify any useful ideas that have come out of the exercise.

Whichever strategy you use, you’ll probably come up with lots of ideas, but follow these tips to help you choose the best one.

Don’t feel you need to work logically

Good ideas often have strange origins. An apple fell on Isaac Newton’s head, and this gave us the idea of gravity. Mary Shelley had a dream, and this gave us her famous literary classic, Frankenstein .

It does not matter how you get your idea; what matters is that you find a good one.

Work from general to specific

Your first good idea won’t take the form of a fully-formed thesis statement . Find a topic before you find an argument.

You’ll need to think about your topic in broad, general terms before you can narrow it down and make it more precise.

Maintain momentum

Don’t be critical of your ideas at this stage – it can hinder your creativity. If you think too much about the flaws in your ideas, you will lose momentum.

Creative momentum is important: the first ten in a string of related ideas might be garbage, but the eleventh could be pure gold. You’ll never reach the eleventh if you shut down your thought process at the second.

Let ideas go

Don’t get too attached to the first appealing topic you think of. It might be a great idea, but it also might turn out to be a dud once you start researching and give it some critical thought .

Thinking about a new topic doesn’t mean abandoning an old one – you can easily come back to your original ideas later and decide which ones work best.

Choose a topic that interests you

A bored writer makes for boring writing. Try to find an idea that you’ll enjoy writing about, or a way to integrate your interests with your topic.

In the worst case scenario, pick the least boring topic of all of the boring topics you’re faced with.

Keep a notepad close

Good ideas will cross your mind when you least expect it. When they do, make sure that you can hold onto them.

Many people come up with their best ideas just before falling asleep; you might find it useful to keep a notepad by your bed.

Once you’ve settled on an idea, you’ll need to start working on your thesis statement and planning your paper’s structure.

If you find yourself struggling to come up with a good thesis on your topic, it might not be the right choice – you can always change your mind and go back to previous ideas.

Write a thesis statement Make an essay outline

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

Academic style
Vague sentences
Style consistency

See an example

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

Ad hominem fallacy
Post hoc fallacy
Appeal to authority fallacy
False cause fallacy
Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

Choosing Essay Topic
Write a College Essay
Write a Diversity Essay
College Essay Format & Structure
Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

(AI) Tools

Grammar Checker
Paraphrasing Tool
Text Summarizer
AI Detector
Plagiarism Checker
Citation Generator

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Bryson, S. (2023, July 23). Generate Topic Ideas For an Essay or Paper | Tips & Techniques. Scribbr. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/generating-topic-ideas/

Is this article helpful?

Shane Bryson

Shane finished his master's degree in English literature in 2013 and has been working as a writing tutor and editor since 2009. He began proofreading and editing essays with Scribbr in early summer, 2014.

Other students also liked

A step-by-step guide to the writing process, how to write an essay outline | guidelines & examples, how to write an argumentative essay | examples & tips, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”

Jump to navigation

Inside Writing
Teacher's Guides
Student Models
Writing Topics
Minilessons
Shopping Cart
Inside Grammar
Grammar Adventures
CCSS Correlations
Infographics

Writing a Definition Essay

You've selected a term or two, gathered denotations and connotations and other details, and created a working thesis statement. You're ready to draft your definition essay. The following activities will help you build a strong beginning, develop middle paragraphs, and create an ending that effectively wraps up your definition.

Writing the Beginning Paragraph

The first sentence or two of your definition essay needs to grab your reader's interest. You can experiment with a number of different strategies to write an effective lead.

Write a lead sentence.

Experiment with leads for your essay using each strategy below. Read the examples for ideas. Then choose your favorite lead to start your essay. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template .

“I was such a nerd, a complete geek, but then I was lucky enough to have a fancy career, where I can be like ‘See, I'm not a nerd. Look, I'm in Vogue .’ ” —Brooke Shields

So, just how did the nerds come to rule the universe?

Fifty years ago, the only people who sat in front of computers were nerds. Now, all kinds of people carry computers in their pockets and read them in their palms and hold them in front of their faces and smile.

One way to beat a bully is to turn an insult into a badge of honor.

Write your beginning paragraph.

Start with your lead, and then provide background information and develop a paragraph leading to your thesis statement.

Writing the Middle Paragraphs

Develop middle paragraphs that fully explore the meaning of your term(s). Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that names the main point. Thoroughly support each topic sentence using denotations, connotations, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, and other details. Make sure to select words that show your enthusiasm for the topic and connect to your reader.

Write your middle paragraphs.

Develop a paragraph of support for each main point about your thesis statement.

Teacher Tip

Allow students to develop these paragraphs first if they wish. Sometimes, students prefer to work from the details up to the thesis statement rather than the reverse direction.

Writing the Ending Paragraph

Your ending paragraph draws your definition essay to an effective close. You can develop this paragraph using a number of different ending strategies.

Try ending strategies.

Write a sentence for each ending strategy. Read the examples for ideas. Then consider using some or all of these sentences in your ending paragraph. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template .

Geeks began as unskilled carnival workers and ended up as the richest people in the world.

Heroes come in all forms, from the Hulk with his erupting rage and giant green fists to Doctor Who with a police call box and a sonic screwdriver.

Felicia Day once noted, "The substance of what it means to be a geek is essentially someone who's brave enough to love something against judgment. The heart of being a geek is a little bit of rejection."

We live at a time when sports fans proudly call themselves "baseball nerds" and geek out over the World Cup and organize fantasy football leagues.

Write your ending paragraph.

Use some or all of the strategies you tried above as you build an ending paragraph for your definition essay.

Reading a Definition Essay

Read a student sample..

As you read this draft, notice how the writer puts the parts together.

Listen to "Get Your Nerd On"

Sample Definition Essay

Get your nerd on.

Beginning Paragraph In the days of traveling circuses, the lion tamer, trapeze artist, and tightrope walker were royalty. The bearded lady and wolf boy themselves had a certain cachet. Etymology But lowest of the low was the wild man whose only skill was biting the heads off chickens. That was the geek. Savage. Lowbrow. Grotesque. Thesis Statement In the last fifty years, the terms geek and nerd went from insults for social rejects to badges of honor for some of the most successful people in the world. How?

Middle Paragraphs While geek began its career as a name for an outcast sideshow carney, nerd got its start in Dr. Seuss's 1950 book If I Ran a Zoo :

And then, just to show them, I'll sail to Ka-Troo

And bring back an It-Kutch, a Preep, and a Proo,

A Nerkle, a Nerd, and a Seersucker too.

The nerd in the zoo was just like the geek in the carnival—an oddity that people would pay money to gawk at. Quotation In 1951, Newsweek gave the first definition of nerd for people: "In Detroit, someone who once would be called a drip or a square is now, regrettably, a nerd." This sense of being a social outcast persists in the modern definition of each term. Denotation Merriam-Webster defines a nerd as "an unstylish, unattractive, or socially inept person; especially one slavishly devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits," and defines a geek as "a person often of an intellectual bent who is disliked." The nerd is a socially awkward bookworm. The geek is a know-it-all.

Topic Sentence These negative definitions predominated in the middle of the last century. In 1965, Milton-Bradley released the Mystery Date game, in which girls opened a little plastic door hoping for a handsome, athletic suitor rather than then bookish, socially awkward "dud." In 1975, National Lampoon published a poster that asked "Are You a Nerd?" and showed a gangly young man with black plastic glasses taped in the middle, a white button-down shirt with black tie and pocket protector, Farah Slacks that did not cover his white socks, and a pair of wingtips. The text below began, "Let's hope not. . . ." In 1984, the film Revenge of the Nerds presented the hilarious concept that a group of socially inept bookworms could somehow win out over the jock fraternity Alpha Beta and its cheerleader sorority, Pi Delta Pi.

Somehow, though, that's exactly what happened. Nerds and geeks became prominent in the computer revolution of the 1970s, but they didn't become socially acceptable until the Internet revolution of the 1990s, and didn't become masters of the universe until the social-media revolution of the 2000s. Fifty years ago, only losers spent any time sitting in front of computers. Now, everyone carries a pocket computer and checks it every few minutes and lifts it to smile and share and be popular. Bill Gates and his generation of nerds began by building computers in their garages and ended by becoming the richest people in the world. Even Hollywood has been taken over by nerds and geeks, with comic books and fantasy novels inspiring the biggest blockbusters. We've all lived through the Revenge of the Nerds , but this time it wasn't for laughs.

Connotation So, now that the outcasts have risen to the top of the heap, we should think a little bit about the shades of difference between the words nerd and geek. Merriam-Webster offers them as synonyms for each other, but each has a slightly different focus. A nerd is "slavishly devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits," which connotes a serious, laborious, scholarly interest. A geek is "an enthusiast or expert especially in a technological field or activity," which connotes a joyful, active, techie interest. Nerds are obsessed introverts. Geeks are obsessed extroverts.

Examples Now that both terms have shucked many of their negative connotations, they are used by people about all kinds of non-academic, non-techie subjects. We live at a time when sports fans proudly call themselves "baseball nerds" and geek out over the World Cup and organize fantasy football leagues. In addition to wine connoisseurs, we have beer nerds; in addition to gourmands , we have food geeks. We have election nerds and gardening geeks. Anyone with a serious, scholarly fascination can proudly wear the nerd badge, and anyone with an exuberant, wild-man interest can fly the geek banner.

Ending Paragraph These onetime insults have undergone re-appropriation, a process by which a marginalized group takes on a slur and turns it into a source of pride. Though nerd and geek have lost most of their negative connotations, a sense of social isolation still exists within them. The actress Felicia Day reflected, "The substance of what it means to be a geek is essentially someone who's brave enough to love something against judgment. The heart of being a geek is a little bit of rejection." Though the bookish nerds have progressed from being the "duds" of Mystery Date to the CEOs of Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, they still sometimes feel that their intense interests leave them just outside of the circle of "popular kids."

Teaching Tip

Show students how strong word choice creates interest: cachet, wild man, savage, lowbrow, grotesque, carney —and those appear just in the first paragraph. By selecting evocative nouns, precise verbs, and colorful modifiers, students can engage readers and show their investment in the topic.

k12.thoughtfullearning.com

IMAGES

Exploring Top 100+ Definition Essay Topics:Tips and Examples
How to Write a Definition Essay: Writing Guide with Sample Essays
Top 100 Best Definition Essay Topics
Definition Essay Examples and Topic Ideas
115 Outstanding Definition Essay Topics for Students
PPT

VIDEO

Definition Essay Introduction
end reward definition essay
Researched Definition Essay: Writing a Counterargument
Important Essay Topics
पुरा सतत व्यापक मूल्यांकन एक ही वीडियो में । Complete CCE , Meaning , definition , characteristics
How to write a Perfect Essay |Tips and Guidelines

COMMENTS

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.
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.
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.
Definition Essay Examples and Topic Ideas
Learn the structure of a definition essay and read two examples of essays about concrete and abstract concepts. ... You just need to ask a question when finding a prompt for a definition essay. Here are some possible topics for your next definition essay. Note that the list includes both concrete and abstract terms and spans a range of subjects.
Uncovering Endless Inspiration for Your Essay
How to Write a Definition Essay: 6 Simple Tips. When selecting topics for definition essay, keep these expert tips in mind for successful writing: Choose Wisely: Opt for more informative essay topics that go beyond simple nouns or verbs like 'swimming' or 'necklace.'. Focus on processes or concepts that offer depth.
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.
20 Definition Essay Topics That Go Beyond the Obvious
Here is a list of 20 definition essays topics to help you write the perfect paper. Some of the items are linked to example essays to give you even more inspiration. 1. Senioritis. Think about being a senior with only months left before graduation. Think about not wanting to go to class, about wanting to skip all things resembling homework, and ...
100 Definition Essay Topics Ideas & Examples for Students
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.
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.
457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips
457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips. (10 votes) 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.
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 ...
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 ...
How to Write a Definition Essay. Fresh Topics&Examples
Here's what you need to include: Start with something attention-grabbing, like a thought-provoking question or an interesting fact. Provide a brief overview of the topic and why it's important to define it. Clearly state the term you're defining and your interpretation of it. Definition Essay Body Paragraphs.
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.
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.
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 (Plus Topics You Can Use ...
Body para 2. The denotation of the term (in your own words) Offer examples. Body para 3. The connotation of the term (in your own words) Offer examples. Conclusion. A brief restatement of the definition of the term. Additional information about the term your reader would find interesting.
Definition Essay: How-To, Structure, Examples, Topics
Many students look at definition essays as being an 'easy' way of getting a grade. ... but writing a good definition is more than just writing description. Use this guide to get the most out of your essay and get the highest grades possible. 1-888-205-04-96 Toll-free ... It's a good idea to practice writing definition essays. Here're few topics ...
Definition Essay: Ultimate Writing Guide
Examples of Definition Essays. Take a look at some possible topics for your next definition paper. Note that the examples below are about abstract concepts. When writing a definition paper, you can explain a concrete concept as well. It's all up to you! Example 1. What is Fame. People interpret the concept of fame differently.
Definition Essay Topic (How to Choose One + LIst of 70 Amazing Topics)
Impressive Definition Essay Topics. Much as the title suggests, definition essays are a type of essay that explain and define some particular thing and they are based on a specific topic or subject. Generally speaking, these essays are fairly straightforward. A lot of professors ask their students to submit definitions essays as a way of ...
How to Write a Definition Essay: Outline, Examples
It means that writing a definition essay you should use your arguments clearly to prevent your audience from a wrong understanding of a problem. In simple terms, it tells people what your issue is not. Origins & Causes. This is where you tell about the origins of your issue or things that have caused some event or changes.
Generate Topic Ideas For an Essay or Paper
Give yourself a broad topic to write about. Then, on a pad of paper or a word processor, write continuously for two or three minutes. Don't stop, not even for a moment. Write down anything that comes to mind, no matter how nonsensical it seems, as long as it somehow relates to the topic you began with.
Writing a Definition Essay
By selecting evocative nouns, precise verbs, and colorful modifiers, students can engage readers and show their investment in the topic. Writing a Definition Essay You've selected a term or two, gathered denotations and connotations and other details, and created a working thesis statement. You're ready to draft your definition essay.

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

A Closer Look at Definition Essay

Definition Essay Topics Ideas

Definition Essay Topics for High School Students

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Definition Essay Topic on Mass Media

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Good Definition Essay Topics

Unique Definition Essay Topics

One Word Definition Essay Topics:

Classification and Definition Essay Topics

Simple Definition Essay Topics:

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Random Definition Essay Topics

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Tips on How to Write a Definition Essay

Definition Essay Structure

Keep reading

Definition Essay Topics: 200 Ideas for Students

What Are Definition Essay Topics?

Characteristics of Good Definition Essay Topics

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Best Definition Essay Topics List

Definitional Argument Essay Topics

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Controversial Definition Paper Topics

Good Topics for a Definition Essay

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Definition Essay Ideas for Students

Definition Essay Topics for High School

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Definition Essay Prompts

Definition Essay Topics About Love

Family Definition Topics

Friendship Definition Essay Prompt Ideas

Hero Definition Essay Topics

Definition Essay Topics by Subject

Business Definition Essay Topics

Definition Essay Topics on History

Politics Definition Essay Topics

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Definition Essay Topics on Psychology

Technology & Science Definition Essay Topics

Bottom Line on Definition Essay Topics

FAQ About Definition Paper Topics

3. What are some great definition essay topic ideas?

2. What are popular argumentative definition essay topics?

You may also like

100 Intersting Definition Essay Topics

Selecting Extended Definition Essay Topics

100 Best Definition Paper Topics

Family Definition Essay Ideas

Love and Friendship Topics for Definition Essays

Freedom Definition Essay Prompts

Business Topics for Definition Essay

Science and IT Definition Prompts

Definition Essay Topics For College Students

Easy Definition Essays Topics

Creative Ideas

Extended Definition Essays Ideas

Pick Great Definition Speech Topics and Learn Beauty of Writing

Related Topics

Popular request:

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Good Definition Paper Topics

Argument of Definition Topics

Great Hot Topics Definition

Controversial Topics Definition

Definition Essay Topics for College

Definition Speech Topics

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Extended Definition Topics

457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips

🧐 Definition Argument Topics