What is ontological definition?

Ontological definition refers to the definition of a concept, idea or object in terms of its basic characteristics or properties. In other words, an ontological definition of something aims to identify its essential features, or what makes it what it is.

Ontology is a branch of philosophy that deals with the study of existence or being. It seeks to understand the nature of things and how they relate to one another. An ontological definition seeks to capture the essence of something and describe it in its most fundamental terms.

An ontological definition is often contrasted with a nominal definition, which defines a term in terms of its name or the way it is used in language. An ontological definition, on the other hand, is focused on the actual nature of the thing being defined, rather than its linguistic or cultural context.

An ontological definition can be applied to a wide range of concepts and objects, from physical entities like rocks or trees to more abstract concepts like justice or morality. It is often used in fields like philosophy, science, and computer science to clarify concepts and facilitate communication and understanding.