An extensional definition specifies the meaning of a term by indicating the set

of things to which the term applies. It is a way of defining a word based on giving
examples of the things or objects referred to by a term.
This is also known as denotative definitions.

Like for example:

Paper which may imply a yellow paper, bond paper, or
construction paper.
Sign pen which indicates blue, black or red sign pen.

Extensional definitions themselves come in three basic types: verbal, nonverbal

(or ostensive) and quasi-ostensive.

A verbal extensional definition specifies the meaning of a term by naming the

members of the extension individually (enumerative definition) or in groups (definition by
subclass).

First, an enumerative definition specifies the meaning of a term by naming the

members of its extension individually. It can be partial or complete enumerative
definition. The former refers when not all members of the extension was enumerated. In
contrast, the latter refers when all members of the extension are listed.

Example of partial enumerative definition:

Student means someone such as Pelayo and Comaling.

Example of complete enumerative definition:

Group two means Adao, Ballunos, Borja, Catre, Clarion, Daquipa,
Devilleres, Gonzaga, Jumamil, Trinidad.

Lastly, a definition by subclass specifies the meaning of a term by naming the

members of its extension in groups.

For example:
Davao Region means Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao
Oriental and Davao Occidental.

On the other hand, an ostensive definition specifies the meaning of a term by

pointing to objects in its extension.

For instance:
First you point a shoulder bag, utter the word bag. Then, you
next point a back pack, again utter the word bag.

In addition, a quasi-ostensive which does not only point the object but also
gives a description about the object being pointed out.
 Example:
You point a laptop while you were describing it as a small computer that is
designated to be easily carried.

Moreover, extentional definitions have their drawbacks. This means that some
terms cannot be defined extensionally because their extensions are empty, or if they are
often inadequate for the purposes of argument and rational dialogue. For example,
Merman or mermaid means a fabled marine creature with the head and upper body of a
man and the tail of a fish. Since, merman is a mythical creature, the extension of such
word is empty.

Nevertheless, extensional definitions are important especially when a term

requires a demonstration in order to be understood.