What is predicated definition?

A predicated definition is a type of definition that uses a predicate (a statement about the qualities or characteristics of a thing or group of things) to define a term. In this type of definition, the term being defined is linked to the predicate by a copular verb (such as "is," "are," "seems," etc.). The predicate used in the definition may be a single word or a phrase that describes the essential qualities of the term being defined.

For example, a predicated definition of a "cat" could be: "A cat is a small, furry domesticated carnivorous mammal."

Predicated definitions are commonly used in philosophy, logic, and linguistics to define complex terms and concepts. They are also used in everyday language to provide clear and concise definitions of words. However, predicated definitions can be challenging to create, particularly for abstract or complex concepts, and they may be subject to ambiguity or disagreement over the choice of predicate used.