verb
identify
eye-DEN-tuh-fy/aɪˈdentɪfaɪ/
To establish who or what someone or something is.
The botanist identifies the leaf by comparing it with a botanical drawing.
Etymology
The original idea was to regard something as the same. This developed into recognizing or establishing that someone or something is the particular person or thing in question.
In context
you must identify what went wrong, right? You have to identify your problem. And that means you have to define your problem.
More examples
- Can you identify this bird by its song?
- The mechanic identified the source of the noise.
- Please identify yourself before entering the building.
Forms
identify · identifies · identified · identifying
identification noun — The act of establishing someone's or something's identity.
identifiable adjective — Able to be recognized or named.