definic

Definic is a term used in theoretical discussions of knowledge representation and semantics to denote a concise, formal statement that captures the essential properties of a concept. A definic aims to express the minimal conditions necessary for membership in a category, avoiding attributes that are incidental or context-dependent.

Origin and usage: The word appears as a neologism formed from the Latin definire plus the -ic suffix. It is used mainly in formal or pedagogical contexts to contrast with ordinary definitions. There is no single standard for what counts as a definic, and practices vary by discipline.

Characteristics: A definic is typically non-circular, unambiguous, and testable. It emphasizes necessary and sufficient conditions and seeks stability under revision of the underlying theory. It is often intended to facilitate clear classification in ontologies, glossaries, or knowledge graphs.

Examples: In a simple ontology of vehicles, the definic of "car" might state: a motor vehicle designed for road use with at least four wheels, intended to transport people, excluding bicycles and trucks with different primary purposes. Peripheral traits like color or branding are not part of the definic.

Relationship and critique: Definics relate to definitions, axioms, and taxonomic rules. They are valued for precision but criticized for rigidity when dealing with natural language or overlapping categories, where fuzzy boundaries and context can be important.

See also: Definition, Ontology, Glossary, Taxonomy.