"Definition" - A statement which captures the meaning, the use, the function and the essence of a term or a concept

Let me try to define smooth. In doing so we are trying to capture the essence of being smooth, or something's "smoothness." It is smoothness that is defined - not this or that specific smooth object. We want to be able to identify smoothness whenever, wherever and however we come across it. But smoothness cannot be captured without somehow tackling and including the uses of a smooth object. What is it made for? What does it do or help to do? In other words, a definition must include an operative part, a function. In many cases the function of the term defined constitutes its meaning. The context of a word is essential. A good definition includes a context, which serves to alleviate ambiguity. Let me summarize the...