definite article

noun

Grammar.

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

definite article

noun

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

definite article

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of definite article¹

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

Other players, equally freed from the bother of proper nouns or even definite articles, go by handily expository titles like “first brother-in-law” or “longest friend.”

From New York Times

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

From Washington Times

Grammar and pronunciation Telltale tyro signs include adding definite articles to freeway names.

From Seattle Times

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

From New York Times

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

From Washington Post