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Caleb S.
Caleb S.

Learn How to Create a Definition Essay Outline With Examples

6 min read

Published on: Sep 8, 2021

Last updated on: Jan 19, 2023

Definition Essay Outline

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Writing definition essays in high school and college is a very common assignment for every student. This type of essay writing helps readers to understand an unfamiliar word, idea, or concept.

This kind of writing aims to improve students’ creative and academic writing skills. Many students find it challenging to deal with this type of writing. The reason is that here they have to show their writing abilities in a structured and organized way.

If you want to write a definition essay but you are unsure how. Well, look no further because this blog will guide you through the process of crafting a definition essay outline.

So, let's get this started!

What is a Definition Essay?

A good definition essay aims to provide a detailed explanation of a specific word or term. This essay is used to present an understanding of different unknown terminologies and ideas.

Writers can express their personal opinions about a particular term in this type of writing. In addition, they can get help through well-researched examples from different people. Also, writers can mention their personal experiences to make the audience understand easily.

A definition essay is not just written to mention the term definition simply. Instead, it completely researches a new term that cannot be described in a single sentence.

Various essential elements can help to compose an effective definition essay outline. These elements are important for defining a given term and delivering it successfully.

Refer to our format to create an organized and structured definition essay outline in no time.

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Definition Essay Outline Format

A definition essay structure is similar to other types of essays, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

The most common structure for crafting a definition essay is as follows:

1. Introduction

    • Official or dictionary definition
    • An anecdote, interesting facts, or personal examples
    • Thesis statement

2. Body Paragraph I

    • Topic sentence I
    • Topic sentence analysis
    • Supporting information (examples, facts, or evidence)
    • Transition to the next topic sentence

3. Body Paragraph II

    • Topic sentence II
    • Topic sentence analysis
    • Supporting information (examples, facts, or evidence)
    • Transition to the next topic sentence

4. Body Paragraph III

    • Topic sentence III
    • Topic sentence analysis
    • Supporting information (examples, facts, or evidence)
    • Transition to the conclusion

5. Conclusion

    • Restated thesis statement
    • Summary of the major points
    • Final remarks

You can start writing your definition essay on any topic you want. The following structure is required, consisting of only the five paragraphs mentioned earlier.

How to Write a Definition Essay Outline?

The definition essay is similar to an expository essay in that the writer states the meaning of a particular subject. The definition and analysis of a new term or topic are provided in both essays.

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a definition essay outline. You can create your own impressive piece by following the writing process provided below.

1. Read Every Guideline Carefully

Before beginning your definition essay, carefully read the essay guidelines and details. Understanding what type of paper you require will reduce the amount of time required and ensure that every word counts!

The instructions will specify exactly what is expected from your piece of writing. Ensure you don't miss any essay instructions, as every guideline is provided for a successful essay.

2. Choose an Engaging Topic

Choosing an engaging topic will help you capture the reader's attention. After that, make a list of terms you'll look up and select a topic that interests you the most.

You can look up words or terms in the dictionary or the news. Look for uncommon words because these are the topics that people find more engaging and interesting.

Most people are familiar with popular topics and are uninterested in learning more about them. So, choosing unusual topics is always a good idea.

You can also choose a term or word with an abstract meaning to write an essay about it easily. This is because an extended essay topic can produce an excellent definition essay.

3. Collect Relevant Information

After choosing a good topic, it's time to gather relevant and credible information about it. First, look up its dictionary definition and list all the literal meanings for a better understanding.

Following that, you must double-check the quotations from reference books and the definitions provided by famous people. Next, refer to your instructor and inquire about the term's meaning and the various meanings associated with it. And in the final search, it's a good idea to look for a word's etymology.

4. Make an Outline

The structure of a definition essay is similar to other types of essays. First, create an outline of your research findings and organize them. So that when it comes time to write, you can go into greater detail about these points.

What makes a good outline?

The most common essay format is a five-paragraph essay outline. There are five elements that must be included to write a good essay.

      1. An introductory paragraph
      2. Body Paragraph 1
      3. Body Paragraph 2
      4. Body Paragraph 3
      5. A concluding paragraph

5. Definition Essay Introduction

The definition essay introduction should be interesting enough to entice your reader to read the rest of the essay. It must present well-researched information in an engaging manner that will make it difficult for readers to leave without reading.

Here are some key elements of the introduction:

      • Begin your essay with a topic's academic definition.
      • Give an overview of the subject.
      • Provide a strong thesis statement that defines the term precisely.

Keep in mind that, unlike an argumentative essay, a definition essay does not require a complex thesis statement. However, the definition essay thesis statement is simply a strong and effective statement with a neutral appearance.

6. Definition Essay Body Paragraphs

The essay’s body is divided into three paragraphs, each presenting one point with supporting details.

Most definition essays are so brief that you won't even need to gather enough information to write three separate paragraphs. So, it can have as few as one paragraph, and more paragraphs can be added as needed.

Here's how you can set up your body paragraphs section:

      • Give a detailed background of the term you're analyzing.
      • Examples, facts, and explanations from dictionaries and other sources should be listed.
      • Clarify the term so that the readers don’t get confused.

Remember that you are not writing a narrative essay in which you simply tell the story. In a definition essay, you must explain the term thoroughly so that the reader understands it completely.

7. Definition Essay Conclusion

The final section of this essay summarises all of the important points you made throughout. Here are some easy steps to help you organize a conclusion paragraph.

      • Provide a summary of every main point
      • Include personal opinions of these points
      • End the essay by motivating the reader to learn more about it

Make sure you provide enough information so that the reader understands the term.

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Definition Essay Outline Examples

Making an outline before writing an essay helps define the essay layout. For your convenience, here are some definition essay outline examples. Take a look at it:

The definition essay is a difficult type of writing that requires a great deal of skill and creativity. You can always turn to our professional writers at EssayWriter.college for assistance.

Our essay writing service will assist you in quickly creating the perfect definition essay. They can write any type of paper, including research papers, term papers, case studies, and literature reviews.

So, if you need essay writing help, contact our team of experts. They are available for all of your academic requirements and can meet any deadline!

Caleb S.

WRITTEN BY

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Helping students achieve their academic dreams is what brings Caleb S. the most fulfillment. With his Master's degree from Oxford University, Caleb has plenty of experience with writing that he can utilize to benefit those who seek his help. Prioritizing his client's needs, he always goes above and beyond to provide top-notch service.

Helping students achieve their academic dreams is what brings Caleb S. the most fulfillment. With his Master's degree from Oxford University, Caleb has plenty of experience with writing that he can utilize to benefit those who seek his help. Prioritizing his client's needs, he always goes above and beyond to provide top-notch service.

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