Meaning & Definition of word "Undefined"

Undefined

/ʌn.dɪˈfaɪnd/

adjective:

  • 1. Not clearly defined or having no precise meaning.
    • Example: The project's goals remained undefined, leading to confusion among team members.
  • 2. In mathematics, it refers to a value or expression that lacks a clear value or definition.
    • Example: Dividing by zero results in an undefined value in the realm of arithmetic.
  • 3. Not having distinct or clear boundaries or characteristics.
    • Example: The undefined limits of the forest made it difficult for hikers to navigate.
  • 4. Not assigned or recognized; ambiguous.
    • Example: His role in the organization was left undefined, allowing him to take on various responsibilities.
  • 5. In computer programming, referring to a variable or property that has not been initialized.
    • Example: Accessing the undefined variable in the code caused the program to throw an error.

Etymology

From un- + defined.

Common Phrases and Expressions

undefined behavior:

In programming, a term used for actions that are unpredictable and not explicitly defined by the specification.

undefined terms:

Basic concepts in a field of study that are not defined but are assumed to be understood.

Related Words

define:

To state or mark the boundaries of something.

definite:

Having distinct limits; clear and specific.

Slang Meanings of undefined

Meaning: Used to describe something that lacks clarity.

Example Sentence: His explanation was totally undefined.

Meaning: Referring to a situation that's confusing or not straightforward.

Example Sentence: The plan was kind of undefined, so we didn’t know what to do next.