define (something) as (something)

To describe, designate, or label something as something. Oh, Molly's not coming to the parade because she defines these kind of events as chaotic and overwhelming. Dad won't go with you—he defines musicals as universally boring. He even fell asleep last year at The Music Man! Why would I go to a political rally with you? I define those kinds of things as three-ring circuses without the big top.

defining moment

1. A point in time at which some essential trait or aspect of someone's or something's character or nature is made apparent. Having to confront my boss was a defining moment for me—it was when I realized that I was so much stronger and more capable than I had been trained to believe. This will prove to be a defining moment in the political party's identity. Either they uphold their core ideologies, or they embrace the more extreme views that have been gaining mainstream popularity. If you do well on this tough assignment, it could be your defining moment in the newsroom.

2. A point in time at which the future of someone or something is defined or decided. The release of their incredibly popular MyPhone was a defining moment for the company, turning them almost overnight into a major corporate juggernaut. I had always gotten good grades in school, but receiving the special award for my research project became a defining moment in my academic career. Not getting into Harvard was something of a defining moment for me. I went to Yale instead and that's where I met my now-husband.

define something as something

to label something as being something. I define that kind of behavior as just plain rude! We have to define that comment as careless and unthinking.