An
ostensive definition conveys the
meaning of a term by pointing out examples. This type of
definition is often used where the term is difficult to define verbally, either because the words will not be understood (as with children and new speakers of a language) or because of the nature of the term (such as colors or sensations). It is usually accompanied with a gesture pointing out the object serving as an example, and for this reason is also often referred to as "". Ostensive definitions rely on an
analogical or
case-based reasoning by the subject they are intended to educate or inform.