What type of definition uses a synonym or clarifying phrase to explain an unfamiliar word?

A parenthetical definition serves the purpose of clarifying an unfamiliar word by providing a synonym or explanatory phrase directly within the text. This approach helps ensure that readers immediately understand the term without needing to refer to external resources. For instance, if a technical document introduces a term like "synchronization," a parenthetical definition might include a brief phrase like "synchronization (the process of aligning data or events)."

This technique effectively maintains the flow of the writing while offering necessary information to the reader, making it easier for them to grasp the content. In contrast, other types of definitions, such as an expanded definition, typically involve more elaborate descriptions or examples, while a glossary refers to a separate section that lists terms with definitions, which may not provide immediate clarification when encountering the term in the text. A sentence definition generally offers a concise explanation but lacks the immediate context that a parenthetical definition provides.