Definition of "identify" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To establish the identity of someone or something.

   • It was hard to identify the shoplifter because the CCTV records didn't have a clear image.

2. (transitive) To disclose the identity of someone.

   • The Associated Press will not identify the suspect of the crime because he is a juvenile.

3. (transitive, biology) To establish the taxonomic classification of an organism.

4. (transitive) To equate or make the same; to unite or combine into one.

   • 18 February, 1780, Edmund Burke, Speech on Economical Reform Let us identify, let us incorporate ourselves with the people.

5. (reflexive) To have a strong affinity with; to feel oneself to be modelled on or connected to.

6. (intransitive) To associate oneself with some group; to feel, or believe one feels, the same way.

7. (reflexive, with as) To claim an identity; to describe oneself as a member of a group; to assert the use of a particular term to describe oneself.