Definem

Definem is a theoretical construct used in information science and linguistics to describe a formal mechanism for attaching precise, machine-readable definitions to terms within a knowledge representation system. The term is not widely standardized; it appears mainly in theoretical discussions and hypothetical models about definability and ontology design.

Conceptually, a definem is modeled as a small data object that typically includes an identifier, a definitional template, and a propositional content. The template specifies the intended structure of the definition (for example, necessary and sufficient conditions), while the content states the properties and relations that uniquely characterize the referent under a given interpretation. Truth conditions are determined by an underlying semantics.

Definems are used to anchor terms in knowledge graphs, ontologies, and natural language interfaces. They support automated reasoning, consistency checking, and definitional versioning. Linked definems can express hierarchies, synonyms, and cross-domain mappings, enabling applications such as definitional search and disambiguation.

A simple example would be a definem for the term circle: id circle_001, template "A circle is defined as the locus of all points at a fixed distance from a given center", content "radius r > 0; center c; locus of points at distance r from c". Critics note that definems can become brittle in dynamic domains and may threaten conciseness or introduce ambiguity if templates are overgeneralized.