<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  11.2.0.5 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 3/16/2026 11:02:50 AM-->
<!--Modified on: 3/16/2026 11:02:50 AM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#StatementGroupStatementOfChangesInEquity" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/StatementGroupStatementOfChangesInEquity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementTables" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsTables" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPreparationDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPreparationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTradingProfitByBusinessSegmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTradingProfitByBusinessSegmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDepreciationAndAmortisationDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDepreciationAndAmortisationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNonCurrentAssetsByGeographyDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNonCurrentAssetsByGeographyDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureOperatingProfitDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOperatingProfitDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureOperatingProfitInformationAboutNatureAndCostOfServicesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOperatingProfitInformationAboutNatureAndCostOfServicesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTaxationTaxationAttributableToGroupDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationTaxationAttributableToGroupDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTaxationFactorsAffectingFutureTaxChargesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationFactorsAffectingFutureTaxChargesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTaxationDeferredTaxationDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationDeferredTaxationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosurePropertyPlantAndEquipmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosurePropertyPlantAndEquipmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureGoodwillDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureIntangibleAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureIntangibleAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureInvestmentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesAmountsRecognisedInBalanceSheetAndIncomeStatementDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesAmountsRecognisedInBalanceSheetAndIncomeStatementDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedStatementOfComprehensiveIncomeDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedStatementOfComprehensiveIncomeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedBalanceSheetDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedBalanceSheetDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureInventoriesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInventoriesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesPastDueDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesPastDueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesMovementsInProvisionForBadAndDoubtfulDebtsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesMovementsInProvisionForBadAndDoubtfulDebtsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesDenominatedInMajorCurrenciesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesDenominatedInMajorCurrenciesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAndOtherPayablesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherPayablesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsBorrowingsAreRepayableDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsBorrowingsAreRepayableDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityRiskExposuresDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityRiskExposuresDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsYearEndFinancialLiabilitiesByContractualMaturityDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsYearEndFinancialLiabilitiesByContractualMaturityDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityAndCapitalResourcesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityAndCapitalResourcesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementForeignExchangeExposuresDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementForeignExchangeExposuresDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsAndCurrencyRiskDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsAndCurrencyRiskDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeReserveDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeReserveDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestRateRiskManagementDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestRateRiskManagementDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCreditRiskExposuresDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCreditRiskExposuresDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementNetInvestmentHedgeDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementNetInvestmentHedgeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementFairValueDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementFairValueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCorporateBondsAndPrivatePlacementDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCorporateBondsAndPrivatePlacementDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementMovementOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementMovementOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesChangesInProvisionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesChangesInProvisionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesCurrentAndNonCurrentProvisionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesCurrentAndNonCurrentProvisionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesLegalProceedingsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesLegalProceedingsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsReconciliationOfBenefitObligationsAndPensionAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsReconciliationOfBenefitObligationsAndPensionAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPlanAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPlanAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPrincipalActuarialAssumptionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPrincipalActuarialAssumptionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsSensitivityAnalysisDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsSensitivityAnalysisDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureEquityShareCapitalDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityShareCapitalDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureEquityEquityComponentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityEquityComponentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureEquitySharesBuyBackDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquitySharesBuyBackDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureEquityTreasurySharesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityTreasurySharesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureEquityDividendsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityDividendsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashFlowStatementAnalysisOfNetDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementAnalysisOfNetDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashFlowStatementReconciliationOfNetCashFlowToMovementInNetDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementReconciliationOfNetCashFlowToMovementInNetDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashAndCashEquivalentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashAndCashEquivalentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashOutflowsInflowsArisingFromFinancingActivitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashOutflowsInflowsArisingFromFinancingActivitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsStockOptionsOutstandingDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsStockOptionsOutstandingDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosurePostBalanceSheetEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosurePostBalanceSheetEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureGroupCompaniesDetails" roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureGroupCompaniesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/arcrole/esma-arcrole-2018-11-21.xsd#wider-narrower" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="simple" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-roles-2025.xsd#eedm" roleURI="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="Extensible Enumeration Domain Members" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99900 - Disclosure - Standard And Custom Axis Domain Defaults">
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EquityMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EquityMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RestatedMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RestatedMember_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_RestatedMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RestatedMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis_1 To ifrs-full_RestatedMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsCategoryMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsCategoryMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForBusinessCombinationsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForBusinessCombinationsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis_1 To ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_OtherProvisionsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_OtherProvisionsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SegmentsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_SegmentsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_CurrencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain_1" xlink:title="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis_1" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_CurrencyAxis_1 To currency_AllCurrenciesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_InitiallyAppliedIFRSsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis_1 To ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis_1 To ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" xlink:title="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_1" xlink:title="dei_EntityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis_1" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:dei_LegalEntityAxis_1 To dei_EntityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForSegmentConsolidationItemsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_SegmentConsolidationItemsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForSegmentConsolidationItemsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsStatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="snn_IfrsStatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_IfrsStatementScenarioAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="snn_IfrsScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" xlink:title="snn_IfrsScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_IfrsStatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_IfrsScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_IfrsStatementScenarioAxis_1 To snn_IfrsScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1 To ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_RangeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_RangesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_RangeAxis_1 To ifrs-full_RangesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RestatementAxis" xlink:label="srt_RestatementAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_RestatementAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RestatementDomain" xlink:label="srt_RestatementDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_RestatementDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_RestatementAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_RestatementDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_RestatementAxis_1 To srt_RestatementDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForAssociatesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForAssociatesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis_1 To ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusAxis_1 To ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByOperatingLeaseStatusMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis_1 To ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForIndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForIndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis_1 To ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis_1 To ifrs-full_PastDueStatusMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CounterpartiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CounterpartiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CounterpartiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CounterpartiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_CounterpartiesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NewIFRSsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NewIFRSsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NewIFRSsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_NewIFRSsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_NewIFRSsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_AggregatedTimeBandsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_MaturityAxis_1 To ifrs-full_AggregatedTimeBandsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis_1 To ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_InterestRateTypesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_InterestRateTypesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_AggregatedMeasurementMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis_1 To ifrs-full_AggregatedMeasurementMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_AllLevelsOfFairValueHierarchyMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis_1 To ifrs-full_AllLevelsOfFairValueHierarchyMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesCategoryMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesCategoryMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_LiabilitiesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_LiabilitiesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ContingentLiabilitiesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfContingentLiabilitiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ContingentLiabilitiesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis_1 To ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis_1 To ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis_1 To ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationAxis" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationMember" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationMember_1" xlink:title="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationAxis_1 To snn_FinancingCashFlowLocationMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SharebasedPaymentArrangementsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_SharebasedPaymentArrangementsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForRelatedPartiesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_EntitysTotalForRelatedPartiesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" xlink:title="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1 To snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis_1 To srt_ConsolidatedEntitiesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_TypeOfMeasurementOfExpectedCreditLossesMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_ContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AggregateContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AggregateContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsMember_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_AggregateContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AggregateContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_ContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_AggregateContinuingAndDiscontinuedOperationsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis_1 To ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AddressTypeDomain" xlink:label="dei_AddressTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="dei_AddressTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="dei_AddressTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis_1 To dei_AddressTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_CumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OpeningBalanceBeforeAdjustmentCumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OpeningBalanceBeforeAdjustmentCumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationMember_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_OpeningBalanceBeforeAdjustmentCumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OpeningBalanceBeforeAdjustmentCumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_CumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationAxis_1 To ifrs-full_OpeningBalanceBeforeAdjustmentCumulativeEffectAtDateOfInitialApplicationMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_LineItemsByFunctionMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis_1 To ifrs-full_LineItemsByFunctionMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis" xlink:label="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AllDividendsDomain" xlink:label="snn_AllDividendsDomain_1" xlink:title="snn_AllDividendsDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_AllDividendsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis_1 To snn_AllDividendsDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1 To srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CategoriesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="snn_CategoriesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_CategoriesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancialInstrumentsByCategoryDomain" xlink:label="snn_FinancialInstrumentsByCategoryDomain_1" xlink:title="snn_FinancialInstrumentsByCategoryDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_CategoriesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_FinancialInstrumentsByCategoryDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_CategoriesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis_1 To snn_FinancialInstrumentsByCategoryDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis_1 To ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_OwnershipAxis_1 To srt_OwnershipDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesDomain_1" xlink:title="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis_1" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis_1 To ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain_1" xlink:title="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis_1 To snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1 To srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" order="1" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200090 - Document - Document and Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AdrMember" xlink:label="dei_AdrMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="dei_AdrMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NotesDue2030Member" xlink:label="snn_NotesDue2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="snn_NotesDue2030Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NotesDue2029Member" xlink:label="snn_NotesDue2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="snn_NotesDue2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NotesDue20275.15PercentMember" xlink:label="snn_NotesDue20275.15PercentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="snn_NotesDue20275.15PercentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NotesDue20345.40PercentMember" xlink:label="snn_NotesDue20345.40PercentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="snn_NotesDue20345.40PercentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AddressTypeDomain" xlink:label="dei_AddressTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityAddressesAddressTypeAxis" xlink:to="dei_AddressTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_BusinessContactMember" xlink:label="dei_BusinessContactMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_AddressTypeDomain" xlink:to="dei_BusinessContactMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentInformationTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentRegistrationStatement" xlink:label="dei_DocumentRegistrationStatement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentRegistrationStatement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentAnnualReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentAnnualReport" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentAnnualReport" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentShellCompanyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentShellCompanyReport" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentShellCompanyReport" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCountry" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCountry" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCountry" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CountryRegion" xlink:label="dei_CountryRegion" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CountryRegion" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_ContactPersonnelName" xlink:label="dei_ContactPersonnelName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_ContactPersonnelName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_ContactPersonnelEmailAddress" xlink:label="dei_ContactPersonnelEmailAddress" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_ContactPersonnelEmailAddress" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag" xlink:label="dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:label="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:label="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentAccountingStandard" xlink:label="dei_DocumentAccountingStandard" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentAccountingStandard" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_IcfrAuditorAttestationFlag" xlink:label="dei_IcfrAuditorAttestationFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_IcfrAuditorAttestationFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AuditorName" xlink:label="dei_AuditorName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="33" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AuditorName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AuditorFirmId" xlink:label="dei_AuditorFirmId" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="34" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AuditorFirmId" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AuditorLocation" xlink:label="dei_AuditorLocation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="35" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AuditorLocation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="36" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="37" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="38" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="39" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="40" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="41" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFinStmtErrorCorrectionFlag" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFinStmtErrorCorrectionFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="42" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFinStmtErrorCorrectionFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/StatementGroupStatementOfChangesInEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200500 - Statement - Group statement of changes in equity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Equity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DecreaseIncreaseThroughTaxOnSharebasedPaymentTransactions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DecreaseIncreaseThroughTaxOnSharebasedPaymentTransactions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DecreaseIncreaseThroughTaxOnSharebasedPaymentTransactions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931603 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ScheduleOfMovementsInCashFlowHedgeReserveTableTextBlock" xlink:label="snn_ScheduleOfMovementsInCashFlowHedgeReserveTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ScheduleOfMovementsInCashFlowHedgeReserveTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ScheduleOfSensitivityAnalysisOnReasonablyPossibleChangeInRiskVariableTableTextBlock" xlink:label="snn_ScheduleOfSensitivityAnalysisOnReasonablyPossibleChangeInRiskVariableTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ScheduleOfSensitivityAnalysisOnReasonablyPossibleChangeInRiskVariableTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfBookValueAndMarketValueOfFinancialLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfBookValueAndMarketValueOfFinancialLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfBookValueAndMarketValueOfFinancialLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfMovementsInFinancialInstrumentsMeasuredAtLevel3InFairValueHierarchyTableTextBlock" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfMovementsInFinancialInstrumentsMeasuredAtLevel3InFairValueHierarchyTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfMovementsInFinancialInstrumentsMeasuredAtLevel3InFairValueHierarchyTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99932103 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CartihealLtdMember" xlink:label="snn_CartihealLtdMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_CartihealLtdMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBusinessCombinationsExplanatory" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBusinessCombinationsExplanatory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBusinessCombinationsExplanatory" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPreparationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940101 - Disclosure - Basis of preparation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" xlink:label="snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:to="snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NetDebtExcludingLeaseLiabilities" xlink:label="snn_NetDebtExcludingLeaseLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NetDebtExcludingLeaseLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsDebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="snn_IfrsDebtInstrumentTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsDebtInstrumentTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityIncreaseInMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityIncreaseInMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityIncreaseInMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BorrowingsSubjectToFinancialCovenants" xlink:label="snn_BorrowingsSubjectToFinancialCovenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_BorrowingsSubjectToFinancialCovenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LeverageRatio" xlink:label="snn_LeverageRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LeverageRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForeignExchangeRatesAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForeignExchangeRatesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationsAboutBasisOfPreparationLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForeignExchangeRatesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AverageForeignExchangeRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AverageForeignExchangeRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ForeignExchangeRatesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AverageForeignExchangeRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClosingForeignExchangeRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClosingForeignExchangeRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ForeignExchangeRatesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClosingForeignExchangeRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940201 - Disclosure - Business segment information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineJointRepairMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineJointRepairMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineJointRepairMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ArthroscopicEnablingTechnologiesMember" xlink:label="snn_ArthroscopicEnablingTechnologiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:to="snn_ArthroscopicEnablingTechnologiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EarNoseAndThroatMember" xlink:label="snn_EarNoseAndThroatMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:to="snn_EarNoseAndThroatMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_KneeImplantsMember" xlink:label="snn_KneeImplantsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:to="snn_KneeImplantsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_HipImplantsMember" xlink:label="snn_HipImplantsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:to="snn_HipImplantsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherReconstructionMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherReconstructionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:to="snn_OtherReconstructionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TraumaMember" xlink:label="snn_TraumaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:to="snn_TraumaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundCareMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundCareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundCareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundBioactivesMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundBioactivesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundBioactivesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundDevicesMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundDevicesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundDevicesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OrthopaedicsSportsMedicineAndEarNoseAndThroatMember" xlink:label="snn_OrthopaedicsSportsMedicineAndEarNoseAndThroatMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsSportsMedicineAndEarNoseAndThroatMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EstablishedMarketsMember" xlink:label="snn_EstablishedMarketsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" xlink:to="snn_EstablishedMarketsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_EstablishedMarketsMember" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_EstablishedMarketsMember" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EmergingMarketsMember" xlink:label="snn_EmergingMarketsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MarketsOfCustomersDomain" xlink:to="snn_EmergingMarketsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_CH" xlink:label="country_CH" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_EmergingMarketsMember" xlink:to="country_CH" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfGlobalFranchiseDivisions" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfGlobalFranchiseDivisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfGlobalFranchiseDivisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsNumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="snn_IfrsNumberOfOperatingSegments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsNumberOfOperatingSegments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsNumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="snn_IfrsNumberOfReportableSegments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsNumberOfReportableSegments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContractLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContractLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContractLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RevenueThatWasIncludedInContractLiabilityBalanceAtBeginningOfPeriod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RevenueThatWasIncludedInContractLiabilityBalanceAtBeginningOfPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RevenueThatWasIncludedInContractLiabilityBalanceAtBeginningOfPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfMajorCustomers" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfMajorCustomers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfMajorCustomers" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTradingProfitByBusinessSegmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940202 - Disclosure - Business segment information - Trading profit by business segment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" priority="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReportableSegmentsMember" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EngageMember" xlink:label="snn_EngageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EngageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" xlink:label="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" xlink:label="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TradingProfitManagementPerformanceMetric" xlink:label="snn_TradingProfitManagementPerformanceMetric" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TradingProfitManagementPerformanceMetric" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateCosts" xlink:label="snn_CorporateCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CorporateCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" xlink:label="snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivitiesNetOfAdjustments" xlink:label="snn_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivitiesNetOfAdjustments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivitiesNetOfAdjustments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" xlink:label="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LegalAndOtherExpenseOutsideTrading" xlink:label="snn_LegalAndOtherExpenseOutsideTrading" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LegalAndOtherExpenseOutsideTrading" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherFinanceCost" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherFinanceCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherFinanceCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" xlink:label="snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InventoryWritedown2011" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InventoryWritedown2011" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InventoryWritedown2011" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GainsLossesOnRevaluationOfContingentConsideration" xlink:label="snn_GainsLossesOnRevaluationOfContingentConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GainsLossesOnRevaluationOfContingentConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DecreaseInExpenseFromReversalOfProvisions" xlink:label="snn_DecreaseInExpenseFromReversalOfProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DecreaseInExpenseFromReversalOfProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ExpenseFromAdditionalProvisions" xlink:label="snn_ExpenseFromAdditionalProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ExpenseFromAdditionalProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationDepreciationAndAmortisationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940203 - Disclosure - Business segment information - Depreciation and amortisation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SegmentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNonCurrentAssetsByGeographyDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940204 - Disclosure - Business segment information - Non-current assets by geography (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" priority="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomAndUnitedStatesOfAmericaMember" xlink:label="snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomAndUnitedStatesOfAmericaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomAndUnitedStatesOfAmericaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NoncurrentAssetsOtherThanRetirementBenefitAssetsAndDeferredTaxAssets" xlink:label="snn_NoncurrentAssetsOtherThanRetirementBenefitAssetsAndDeferredTaxAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOperatingSegmentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NoncurrentAssetsOtherThanRetirementBenefitAssetsAndDeferredTaxAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOperatingProfitDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940301 - Disclosure - Operating profit (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CostOfSalesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CostOfSalesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CostOfSalesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpensesMember" xlink:label="snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpensesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" xlink:to="snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpensesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" xlink:label="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EngageMember" xlink:label="snn_EngageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EngageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CostOfSales" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CostOfSales" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CostOfSales" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossProfit" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossProfit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossProfit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SalesAndMarketingExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SalesAndMarketingExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SalesAndMarketingExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ChargeRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" xlink:label="snn_ChargeRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ChargeRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ExpenseOfRestructuringActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" xlink:label="snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedCostsRecognisedAsExpenseIncomeForTransactionRecognisedSeparatelyFromAcquisitionOfAssetsAndAssumptionOfLiabilitiesInBusinessCombination" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfSoftwareAndOtherIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfSoftwareAndOtherIntangibleAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfSoftwareAndOtherIntangibleAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" xlink:label="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangibles" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CreditRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" xlink:label="snn_CreditRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CreditRelatingToLegalAndOtherItems" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AmortisationExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AmortisationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AmortisationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnFinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnFinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnFinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LossesOnDisposalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="snn_LossesOnDisposalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangibleAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LossesOnDisposalsOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangibleAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdvertisingExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdvertisingExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfAttributionOfExpensesByNatureToTheirFunctionLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOperatingProfitInformationAboutNatureAndCostOfServicesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940302 - Disclosure - Operating profit - Information about the nature and cost of services (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomMember" xlink:label="snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="snn_RestOfWorldExcludingUnitedKingdomMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WagesAndSalaries" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WagesAndSalaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WagesAndSalaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SocialSecurityContributions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SocialSecurityContributions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SocialSecurityContributions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_EmployeeBenefitsExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EmployeeBenefitsExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EmployeeBenefitsExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AverageNumberOfEmployees" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AverageNumberOfEmployees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AverageNumberOfEmployees" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfOperatingProfitLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesOfGroupAccounts" xlink:label="snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesOfGroupAccounts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" xlink:to="snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesOfGroupAccounts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesForLocalStatutoryAuditPursuantToLegislation" xlink:label="snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesForLocalStatutoryAuditPursuantToLegislation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" xlink:to="snn_AuditorsRemunerationForAuditServicesForLocalStatutoryAuditPursuantToLegislation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationForOtherServices" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationForOtherServices" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationForOtherServices" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AuditorsRemuneration" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemuneration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemunerationAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AuditorsRemuneration" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationTaxationAttributableToGroupDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940501 - Disclosure - Taxation - Taxation attributable to the Group (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForeignCountriesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForeignCountriesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForeignCountriesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriods" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriods" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriodsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxExpenseIncomeAndAdjustmentsForCurrentTaxOfPriorPeriods" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToOriginationAndReversalOfTemporaryDifferences" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToOriginationAndReversalOfTemporaryDifferences" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToOriginationAndReversalOfTemporaryDifferences" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToTaxRateChangesOrImpositionOfNewTaxes" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToTaxRateChangesOrImpositionOfNewTaxes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRelatingToTaxRateChangesOrImpositionOfNewTaxes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriods" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriods" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriods" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentAndDeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentAndDeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentAndDeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncomeTaxExpenseRelatingToContinuingOperationsComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" xlink:label="snn_IncomeTaxExpenseRelatingToContinuingOperationsComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncomeTaxExpenseRelatingToContinuingOperationsComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" xlink:label="snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncomeTaxAdjustmentFromRestructuringAndRationalisationRelatedCostsAcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedItemsAmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangiblesLegalAndOtherItems" xlink:label="snn_IncomeTaxAdjustmentFromRestructuringAndRationalisationRelatedCostsAcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedItemsAmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangiblesLegalAndOtherItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncomeTaxAdjustmentFromRestructuringAndRationalisationRelatedCostsAcquisitionAndDisposalRelatedItemsAmortisationAndImpairmentOfAcquisitionIntangiblesLegalAndOtherItems" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationFactorsAffectingFutureTaxChargesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940502 - Disclosure - Taxation - Factors affecting future tax charges (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CountryOfDomicileMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfGeographicalAreasLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CurrentTaxLiabilitiesUncertainTaxPositionsCurrent" xlink:label="snn_CurrentTaxLiabilitiesUncertainTaxPositionsCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_CurrentTaxLiabilitiesUncertainTaxPositionsCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherInterestOnProvision" xlink:label="snn_OtherInterestOnProvision" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_OtherInterestOnProvision" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ApplicableTaxRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccountingProfit" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccountingProfit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccountingProfit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TaxExpenseIncomeAtApplicableTaxRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TaxExpenseIncomeAtApplicableTaxRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TaxExpenseIncomeAtApplicableTaxRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfForeignTaxRates" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfForeignTaxRates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfForeignTaxRates" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxBenefitArisingInnovationReliefs" xlink:label="snn_TaxBenefitArisingInnovationReliefs" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TaxBenefitArisingInnovationReliefs" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TaxBenefitArisingFromPreviouslyUnrecognisedTaxLossTaxCreditOrTemporaryDifferenceOfPriorPeriodUsedToReduceCurrentTaxExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TaxBenefitArisingFromPreviouslyUnrecognisedTaxLossTaxCreditOrTemporaryDifferenceOfPriorPeriodUsedToReduceCurrentTaxExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TaxBenefitArisingFromPreviouslyUnrecognisedTaxLossTaxCreditOrTemporaryDifferenceOfPriorPeriodUsedToReduceCurrentTaxExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfExpenseNotDeductibleInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfExpenseNotDeductibleInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TaxEffectOfExpenseNotDeductibleInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxEffectOfPillarTwoTopUpTax" xlink:label="snn_TaxEffectOfPillarTwoTopUpTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TaxEffectOfPillarTwoTopUpTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TaxEffectFromChangeInTaxRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TaxEffectFromChangeInTaxRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TaxEffectFromChangeInTaxRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxEffectOfWithholdingTaxes" xlink:label="snn_TaxEffectOfWithholdingTaxes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TaxEffectOfWithholdingTaxes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" xlink:label="snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_AdjustmentsForCurrentAndDeferredTaxOfPriorPeriodNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxEffectOfNotDeductibleAcquisitionRelatedCostsInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" xlink:label="snn_TaxEffectOfNotDeductibleAcquisitionRelatedCostsInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TaxEffectOfNotDeductibleAcquisitionRelatedCostsInDeterminingTaxableProfitTaxLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxEffectOfNonTaxableImpairmentsOfInvestments" xlink:label="snn_TaxEffectOfNonTaxableImpairmentsOfInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfAverageEffectiveTaxRateAndApplicableTaxRateAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TaxEffectOfNonTaxableImpairmentsOfInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTaxationDeferredTaxationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940504 - Disclosure - Taxation - Deferred taxation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcceleratedTaxDepreciationMember" xlink:label="snn_AcceleratedTaxDepreciationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_AcceleratedTaxDepreciationMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IntangiblesMember" xlink:label="snn_IntangiblesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IntangiblesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RetirementBenefitObligationMember" xlink:label="snn_RetirementBenefitObligationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_RetirementBenefitObligationMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LossesAndOtherTaxAttributesMember" xlink:label="snn_LossesAndOtherTaxAttributesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_LossesAndOtherTaxAttributesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InventoryProvisionsAndOtherDifferencesMember" xlink:label="snn_InventoryProvisionsAndOtherDifferencesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_InventoryProvisionsAndOtherDifferencesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TradingTaxLossesMember" xlink:label="snn_TradingTaxLossesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_TradingTaxLossesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsMember" xlink:label="snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsDomain" xlink:to="snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanSevenYearsMember" xlink:label="snn_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanSevenYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="snn_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanSevenYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfCurrentPeriodRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfCurrentPeriodRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfCurrentPeriodRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfPriorPeriodsRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfPriorPeriodsRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_DeferredTaxExpenseIncomeOfPriorPeriodsRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseFromChangesInTaxRatesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseFromChangesInTaxRatesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseFromChangesInTaxRatesDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxRelatingToItemsChargedOrCreditedDirectlyToEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughBusinessCombinationsDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughBusinessCombinationsDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInDeferredTaxLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughBusinessCombinationsDeferredTaxLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsDeferredTaxAssetsInventory" xlink:label="snn_IfrsDeferredTaxAssetsInventory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_IfrsDeferredTaxAssetsInventory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredTaxAssetsProvisionsAndOtherShortTermTemporaryDifferences" xlink:label="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsProvisionsAndOtherShortTermTemporaryDifferences" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsProvisionsAndOtherShortTermTemporaryDifferences" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredTaxAssetsBadDebtProvisions" xlink:label="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsBadDebtProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsBadDebtProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherCreditsCarryforwards" xlink:label="snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherCreditsCarryforwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_UnusedTaxLossesAndOtherCreditsCarryforwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GrossUnusedResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCredits" xlink:label="snn_GrossUnusedResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCredits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GrossUnusedResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCredits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_UnusedCapitalLosses" xlink:label="snn_UnusedCapitalLosses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_UnusedCapitalLosses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxLossCarryforwards" xlink:label="snn_TaxLossCarryforwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TaxLossCarryforwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" xlink:label="snn_TaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TaxLossesAndOtherTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" xlink:label="snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ResearchAndDevelopmentTaxCreditsForWhichDeferredTaxAssetsHaveBeenRecognised" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredTaxAssetsRecoveryPeriod" xlink:label="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsRecoveryPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTemporaryDifferenceUnusedTaxLossesAndUnusedTaxCreditsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DeferredTaxAssetsRecoveryPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosurePropertyPlantAndEquipmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940701 - Disclosure - Property, plant and equipment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherThanBuildingsMember" xlink:label="snn_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherThanBuildingsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="snn_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherThanBuildingsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LandAndBuildingsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LandAndBuildingsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LandAndBuildingsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LandMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LandAndBuildingsMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LandMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BuildingsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BuildingsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BuildingsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InstrumentsMember" xlink:label="snn_InstrumentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="snn_InstrumentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" priority="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisposalsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisposalsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisposalsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersPropertyPlantAndEquipmentIncludingRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InstrumentsNotYetDeployedAmount" xlink:label="snn_InstrumentsNotYetDeployedAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="snn_InstrumentsNotYetDeployedAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimePropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimePropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContractualCommitmentsForAcquisitionOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContractualCommitmentsForAcquisitionOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContractualCommitmentsForAcquisitionOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossRightofuseAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossRightofuseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfQuantitativeInformationAboutLeasesForLesseeAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossRightofuseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureGoodwillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940801 - Disclosure - Goodwill (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_OrthopaedicsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SportsMedicineMember" xlink:label="snn_SportsMedicineMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:to="snn_SportsMedicineMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EntMember" xlink:label="snn_EntMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_SportsMedicineAndEntMember" xlink:to="snn_EntMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" xlink:label="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_AdvancedWoundManagementMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" xlink:label="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_BirminghamHipResurfacingProductsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EngageMember" xlink:label="snn_EngageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EngageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherCashGeneratingUnitsMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherCashGeneratingUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IndividualAssetsOrCashgeneratingUnitsDomain" xlink:to="snn_OtherCashGeneratingUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Goodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Goodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Goodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfCashGeneratingUnits" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfCashGeneratingUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfCashGeneratingUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DescriptionOfGrowthRateUsedToExtrapolateCashFlowProjections" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfGrowthRateUsedToExtrapolateCashFlowProjections" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfGrowthRateUsedToExtrapolateCashFlowProjections" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DescriptionOfDiscountRatesAppliedToCashFlowProjections" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfDiscountRatesAppliedToCashFlowProjections" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfDiscountRatesAppliedToCashFlowProjections" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PreTaxCashFlowProjectionPeriodForImpairmentTestingCashGeneratingUnits" xlink:label="snn_PreTaxCashFlowProjectionPeriodForImpairmentTestingCashGeneratingUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PreTaxCashFlowProjectionPeriodForImpairmentTestingCashGeneratingUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ProjectionPeriodForCashFlowProjectionsIncludingPeriodToReflectExpectedGrowthCashGeneratingUnits" xlink:label="snn_ProjectionPeriodForCashFlowProjectionsIncludingPeriodToReflectExpectedGrowthCashGeneratingUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfReconciliationOfChangesInGoodwillLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ProjectionPeriodForCashFlowProjectionsIncludingPeriodToReflectExpectedGrowthCashGeneratingUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureIntangibleAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940901 - Disclosure - Intangible assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TechnologybasedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TechnologybasedIntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TechnologybasedIntangibleAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ProductRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="snn_ProductRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="snn_ProductRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ImmaterialTechnologyAssetsMember" xlink:label="snn_ImmaterialTechnologyAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_ProductRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:to="snn_ImmaterialTechnologyAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EngageSIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="snn_EngageSIntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_ProductRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:to="snn_EngageSIntangibleAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DistributionRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="snn_DistributionRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="snn_DistributionRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComputerSoftwareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ComputerSoftwareAndIntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" xlink:label="snn_ComputerSoftwareAndIntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwillMember" xlink:to="snn_ComputerSoftwareAndIntangibleAssetsUnderDevelopmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CartihealLtdMember" xlink:label="snn_CartihealLtdMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_CartihealLtdMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ArthrocareMember" xlink:label="snn_ArthrocareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ArthrocareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OsirisTherapeuticsMember" xlink:label="snn_OsirisTherapeuticsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_OsirisTherapeuticsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_HealthpointMember" xlink:label="snn_HealthpointMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_HealthpointMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ConstructionInProgressMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimeIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimeIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_UsefulLifeMeasuredAsPeriodOfTimeIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AcquisitionsThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AcquisitionsThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AcquisitionsThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionsOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AmortisationIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AmortisationIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AmortisationIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisposalsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisposalsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisposalsIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CapitalCommitments" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CapitalCommitments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CapitalCommitments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RemainingAmortisationPeriodOfIntangibleAssetsMaterialToEntity2019" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RemainingAmortisationPeriodOfIntangibleAssetsMaterialToEntity2019" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RemainingAmortisationPeriodOfIntangibleAssetsMaterialToEntity2019" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941001 - Disclosure - Investments (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_EquityInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EquityInvestmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EquityInvestmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTransfersFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossExcludingExchangeDifferencesFairValueMeasurementAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossExcludingExchangeDifferencesFairValueMeasurementAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossExcludingExchangeDifferencesFairValueMeasurementAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesAmountsRecognisedInBalanceSheetAndIncomeStatementDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941101 - Disclosure - Investments in associates - Amounts recognised in the balance sheet and income statement (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BioventusMember" xlink:label="snn_BioventusMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:to="snn_BioventusMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MarketSharePrice" xlink:label="snn_MarketSharePrice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_MarketSharePrice" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ShareOfProfitLossIncludingImpairmentOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedStatementOfComprehensiveIncomeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941102 - Disclosure - Investments in associates - Summarised statement of comprehensive income (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BioventusMember" xlink:label="snn_BioventusMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:to="snn_BioventusMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdjustmentsToProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="snn_AdjustmentsToProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:to="snn_AdjustmentsToProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInvestmentsInAssociatesSummarisedBalanceSheetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941103 - Disclosure - Investments in associates - Summarised balance sheet (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BioventusMember" xlink:label="snn_BioventusMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:to="snn_BioventusMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AggregatedIndividuallyImmaterialAssociatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AggregatedIndividuallyImmaterialAssociatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AssociatesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AggregatedIndividuallyImmaterialAssociatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Equity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ShareOfAssetsOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="snn_ShareOfAssetsOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="snn_ShareOfAssetsOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CumulativeAdjustmentsToNetAssetsOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="snn_CumulativeAdjustmentsToNetAssetsOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="snn_CumulativeAdjustmentsToNetAssetsOfAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InvestmentsInAssociatesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AmountOfFairValueLessCostOfDisposal" xlink:label="snn_AmountOfFairValueLessCostOfDisposal" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AmountOfFairValueLessCostOfDisposal" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedFromAssociatesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedFromAssociatesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedFromAssociatesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfAssociates" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfAssociates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfAssociates" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureInventoriesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941201 - Disclosure - Inventories (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureTable" xlink:label="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsExcessAndObsoleteInventoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PeriodOfTimeOnMarketForInventoryAdjustmentFormula" xlink:label="snn_PeriodOfTimeOnMarketForInventoryAdjustmentFormula" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PeriodOfTimeOnMarketForInventoryAdjustmentFormula" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentMaterialsAndSuppliesToBeConsumedInProductionProcessOrRenderingServices" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentMaterialsAndSuppliesToBeConsumedInProductionProcessOrRenderingServices" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentMaterialsAndSuppliesToBeConsumedInProductionProcessOrRenderingServices" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WorkInProgress" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WorkInProgress" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WorkInProgress" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CurrentFinishedGoodsAndInventoriesHeldForSale" xlink:label="snn_CurrentFinishedGoodsAndInventoriesHeldForSale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CurrentFinishedGoodsAndInventoriesHeldForSale" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Inventories" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Inventories" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Inventories" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" xlink:label="snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ExpenseFromIncrementalExcessAndObsolescenceInventories" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_WriteDownOfInventoryDueToDisposalOfCertainProductsAndVoluntaryProductDiscontinuation" xlink:label="snn_WriteDownOfInventoryDueToDisposalOfCertainProductsAndVoluntaryProductDiscontinuation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_WriteDownOfInventoryDueToDisposalOfCertainProductsAndVoluntaryProductDiscontinuation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesFromChangesInForeignExchangeRates" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesFromChangesInForeignExchangeRates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesFromChangesInForeignExchangeRates" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CostOfInventoriesRecognisedAsExpenseDuringPeriod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CostOfInventoriesRecognisedAsExpenseDuringPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CostOfInventoriesRecognisedAsExpenseDuringPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfInventories" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfInventories" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WritedownsReversalsOfInventories" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInExistingProvisionsOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInExistingProvisionsOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="snn_ScheduleOfInventoryDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInExistingProvisionsOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941301 - Disclosure - Trade and other receivables (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherCurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentPrepayments" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentPrepayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentPrepayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NonCurrentInvestmentsRelatingToDeferredCompensationArrangements" xlink:label="snn_NonCurrentInvestmentsRelatingToDeferredCompensationArrangements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NonCurrentInvestmentsRelatingToDeferredCompensationArrangements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesPastDueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941302 - Disclosure - Trade and other receivables - Trade receivables past due (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" xlink:label="snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" xlink:to="snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanOneMonthAndNotLaterThanThreeMonthsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneMonthAndNotLaterThanThreeMonthsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneMonthAndNotLaterThanThreeMonthsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanSixMonthsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanSixMonthsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanSixMonthsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanSixMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYearMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanSixMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYearMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_LaterThanOneMonthMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanSixMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYearMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PastDueStatusDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossCarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossTradeReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossTradeReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossTradeReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ExpectedCreditLossRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ExpectedCreditLossRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ExpectedCreditLossRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesMovementsInProvisionForBadAndDoubtfulDebtsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941303 - Disclosure - Trade and other receivables - Movements in the provision for bad and doubtful debts (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountAccumulatedDepreciationAmortisationAndImpairmentAndGrossCarryingAmountAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CarryingAmountMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedImpairmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughForeignExchangeFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughForeignExchangeFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughForeignExchangeFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DecreaseThroughCreditLossProvisionsFinancialAssets" xlink:label="snn_DecreaseThroughCreditLossProvisionsFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DecreaseThroughCreditLossProvisionsFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DecreaseThroughWriteoffFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DecreaseThroughWriteoffFinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DecreaseThroughWriteoffFinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherReceivablesTradeReceivablesDenominatedInMajorCurrenciesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941304 - Disclosure - Trade and other receivables - Trade receivables denominated in major currencies (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" xlink:to="srt_CurrencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_USD" xlink:label="currency_USD" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_USD" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_GBP" xlink:label="currency_GBP" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_GBP" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_EUR" xlink:label="currency_EUR" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_EUR" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OtherCurrencyMember" xlink:label="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherReceivablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTradeReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureTradeAndOtherPayablesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941401 - Disclosure - Trade and other payables (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesCurrentExcludingDerivativesAndAcquisitionConsideration" xlink:label="snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesCurrentExcludingDerivativesAndAcquisitionConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesCurrentExcludingDerivativesAndAcquisitionConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BusinessCombinationsCurrentPayables" xlink:label="snn_BusinessCombinationsCurrentPayables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_BusinessCombinationsCurrentPayables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BusinessCombinationsNoncurrentPayables" xlink:label="snn_BusinessCombinationsNoncurrentPayables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_BusinessCombinationsNoncurrentPayables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDerivativeFinancialLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherNoncurrentPayablesExcludingBusinessCombinationPayables" xlink:label="snn_OtherNoncurrentPayablesExcludingBusinessCombinationPayables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_OtherNoncurrentPayablesExcludingBusinessCombinationPayables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentPayables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentPayables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayablesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentPayables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfTradeAndOtherPayablesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsBorrowingsAreRepayableDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941502 - Disclosure - Cash and borrowings - Borrowings are repayable (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanThreeYearsAndNotLaterThanFourYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanFourYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BondsIssued" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BondsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BondsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementNotes" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementNotes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementNotes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GrossLeaseLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GrossLeaseLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GrossLeaseLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BorrowingsIncludingLeaseLiabilities" xlink:label="snn_BorrowingsIncludingLeaseLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_BorrowingsIncludingLeaseLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LeaseLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LeaseLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LeaseLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityRiskExposuresDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941503 - Disclosure - Cash and borrowings - Liquidity risk exposures (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMaturingJune2025Member" xlink:label="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMaturingJune2025Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMaturingJune2025Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJanuary2026Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJanuary2026Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJanuary2026Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2027Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2027Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2027Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2028Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2028Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2028Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2029Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2029Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2030Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2030Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2032Member" xlink:label="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2032Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_SeniorNotesMaturingJune2032Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfBondsIssuedDuringPeriod" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfBondsIssuedDuringPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfBondsIssuedDuringPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" xlink:label="snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" xlink:label="snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Borrowings" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Borrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Borrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LeverageRatio" xlink:label="snn_LeverageRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LeverageRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsYearEndFinancialLiabilitiesByContractualMaturityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941504 - Disclosure - Cash and borrowings - Year end financial liabilities by contractual maturity (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanFiveYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BankBorrowingsUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BondsIssuedIncludingContractualInterestPayments" xlink:label="snn_BondsIssuedIncludingContractualInterestPayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_BondsIssuedIncludingContractualInterestPayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementNotesUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementNotesUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementNotesUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcquisitionConsiderationUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashOutflows" xlink:label="snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashOutflows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashOutflows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashInflows" xlink:label="snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashInflows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashInflows" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashFlows" xlink:label="snn_FinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashFlows" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_FinancialLiabilitiesUndiscountedCashFlows" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashAndBorrowingsLiquidityAndCapitalResourcesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941505 - Disclosure - Cash and borrowings - Liquidity and capital resources (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CommittedBorrowingFacilitiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_UndrawnBorrowingFacilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_UndrawnBorrowingFacilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_UndrawnBorrowingFacilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Borrowings" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Borrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutBorrowingsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Borrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementForeignExchangeExposuresDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941601 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Foreign Exchange Exposures (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="srt_CurrencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_USD" xlink:label="currency_USD" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_USD" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_HedgeInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="snn_HedgeInstrumentTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_HedgeInstrumentTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeRelationshipsAndCurrencyRiskDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941602 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Cash flow hedge relationships and currency risk (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellCanadianDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellCanadianDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellCanadianDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSouthKoreanWonMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSouthKoreanWonMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSouthKoreanWonMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForUSDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForUSDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForUSDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuyPoundSterlingForUSDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuyPoundSterlingForUSDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuyPoundSterlingForUSDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForPoundSterlingMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForPoundSterlingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellEurosForPoundSterlingMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSingaporeDollarsForUSDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSingaporeDollarsForUSDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellSingaporeDollarsForUSDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuySwissFrancForEurosMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuySwissFrancForEurosMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractBuySwissFrancForEurosMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsForSingaporeDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsForSingaporeDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellAustralianDollarsForSingaporeDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenForSingaporeDollarsMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenForSingaporeDollarsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractSellJapaneseYenForSingaporeDollarsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ForwardExchangeContractOtherCurrenciesMember" xlink:label="snn_ForwardExchangeContractOtherCurrenciesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ForwardExchangeContractOtherCurrenciesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EurCorporateBondMember" xlink:label="snn_EurCorporateBondMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EurCorporateBondMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EuroCorporateBondMember" xlink:label="snn_EuroCorporateBondMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EuroCorporateBondMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotLaterThanOneYearMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MaturityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="srt_CurrencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_USD" xlink:label="currency_USD" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_USD" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AveragePriceOfHedgingInstrument" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AveragePriceOfHedgingInstrument" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AveragePriceOfHedgingInstrument" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_HedgingInstrumentAssetsLiabilities" xlink:label="snn_HedgingInstrumentAssetsLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_HedgingInstrumentAssetsLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInFairValueDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInFairValueDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInFairValueDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInProfitOrLossDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherComprehensiveIncomeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetBorrowingsDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCashFlowHedgeReserveDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941603 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Cash flow hedge reserve (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesTerminatedHedgesMember" xlink:label="snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesTerminatedHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:to="snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesTerminatedHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesActiveHedgesMember" xlink:label="snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesActiveHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:to="snn_ReserveOfCashFlowHedgesActiveHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RestatedMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RestatedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RetrospectiveApplicationAndRetrospectiveRestatementAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RestatedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PreviouslyStatedMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PreviouslyStatedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RestatedMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PreviouslyStatedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedges" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReserveOfCashFlowHedges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReclassificationAdjustmentsOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReclassificationAdjustmentsOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgingInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReclassificationAdjustmentsOnCashFlowHedgesNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestRateRiskManagementDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941604 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Interest rate risk management (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FixedRateDebtUsDollarBondMember" xlink:label="snn_FixedRateDebtUsDollarBondMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" xlink:to="snn_FixedRateDebtUsDollarBondMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FixedRateDebtEuroBondMember" xlink:label="snn_FixedRateDebtEuroBondMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgedItemsDomain" xlink:to="snn_FixedRateDebtEuroBondMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PercentageOfGrossDebtToBeMaintainedAtFixedRatesInAccordanceWithCompanyPolicy" xlink:label="snn_PercentageOfGrossDebtToBeMaintainedAtFixedRatesInAccordanceWithCompanyPolicy" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PercentageOfGrossDebtToBeMaintainedAtFixedRatesInAccordanceWithCompanyPolicy" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_SensitivityAnalysisPercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAnnualNetInterestChargeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAnnualNetInterestChargeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAnnualNetInterestChargeDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInRiskVariable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsLineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgedItemLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgedItemLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgedItemLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AccumulatedFairValueHedgeAdjustmentOnHedgedItemIncludedInCarryingAmountLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AccumulatedFairValueHedgeAdjustmentOnHedgedItemIncludedInCarryingAmountLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AccumulatedFairValueHedgeAdjustmentOnHedgedItemIncludedInCarryingAmountLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BondsIssued" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BondsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfRiskManagementStrategyRelatedToHedgeAccountingLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BondsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCreditRiskExposuresDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941605 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Credit Risk Exposures (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CreditRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CreditRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CreditRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MaximumExposureToCreditRisk" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MaximumExposureToCreditRisk" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfCreditRiskExposureLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MaximumExposureToCreditRisk" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementNetInvestmentHedgeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941606 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Net investment hedge (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgesOfNetInvestmentInForeignOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EurCorporateBondMember" xlink:label="snn_EurCorporateBondMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="snn_EurCorporateBondMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_HedgingInstrumentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnHedgesOfNetInvestmentsInForeignOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnHedgesOfNetInvestmentsInForeignOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesOnHedgesOfNetInvestmentsInForeignOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationContinuingHedges" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationContinuingHedges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationContinuingHedges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationHedgingRelationshipsForWhichHedgeAccountingIsNoLongerApplied" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationHedgingRelationshipsForWhichHedgeAccountingIsNoLongerApplied" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationHedgingRelationshipsForWhichHedgeAccountingIsNoLongerApplied" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgedItemUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDetailedInformationAboutHedgedItemsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfHedgingInstrumentUsedAsBasisForRecognisingHedgeIneffectiveness" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941607 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Interest Bearing Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancialLiabilitiesLongTermDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_FinancialLiabilitiesLongTermDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_FinancialLiabilitiesLongTermDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="srt_CurrencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_USD" xlink:label="currency_USD" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_USD" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_EUR" xlink:label="currency_EUR" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_EUR" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OtherCurrencyMember" xlink:label="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfHedgesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FairValueHedgesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencyRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfRisksDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InterestRateTerm" xlink:label="snn_InterestRateTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_InterestRateTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredAndContingentAcquisitionConsiderationFromBusinessCombinationsAtEndOfPeriod" xlink:label="snn_DeferredAndContingentAcquisitionConsiderationFromBusinessCombinationsAtEndOfPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DeferredAndContingentAcquisitionConsiderationFromBusinessCombinationsAtEndOfPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InterestPayableOnAcquisitionConsideration" xlink:label="snn_InterestPayableOnAcquisitionConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_InterestPayableOnAcquisitionConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AmountOfBorrowingsThatHaveBeenConvertedFromFixedToFloatingRateUsingInterestRateSwaps" xlink:label="snn_AmountOfBorrowingsThatHaveBeenConvertedFromFixedToFloatingRateUsingInterestRateSwaps" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_AmountOfBorrowingsThatHaveBeenConvertedFromFixedToFloatingRateUsingInterestRateSwaps" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementInterestBearingAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941608 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Interest Bearing Assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:label="srt_CurrencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:to="srt_CurrencyAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:label="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CurrencyAxis" xlink:to="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_USD" xlink:label="currency_USD" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_USD" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2025/currency-2025.xsd#currency_EUR" xlink:label="currency_EUR" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="currency_EUR" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OtherCurrencyMember" xlink:label="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="currency_AllCurrenciesDomain" xlink:to="srt_OtherCurrencyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" xlink:label="snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" xlink:to="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_InterestBearingAssetsMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FixedInterestRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementFairValueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941609 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Fair Value (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MeasurementAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AtFairValueMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AtFairValueMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AtFairValueMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotMeasuredAtFairValueInStatementOfFinancialPositionButForWhichFairValueIsDisclosedMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotMeasuredAtFairValueInStatementOfFinancialPositionButForWhichFairValueIsDisclosedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_MeasurementDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotMeasuredAtFairValueInStatementOfFinancialPositionButForWhichFairValueIsDisclosedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_HedgingInstrumentsFairValueMember" xlink:label="snn_HedgingInstrumentsFairValueMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_HedgingInstrumentsFairValueMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_HedgingInstrumentsFairValueMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancialAssetsInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="snn_FinancialAssetsInvestmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_FinancialAssetsInvestmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InvestmentsForDeferredCompensationArrangementsMember" xlink:label="snn_InvestmentsForDeferredCompensationArrangementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_InvestmentsForDeferredCompensationArrangementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeReceivablesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TradeAndOtherReceivablesMember" xlink:label="snn_TradeAndOtherReceivablesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_TradeAndOtherReceivablesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcquisitionConsiderationMember" xlink:label="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationMember" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ForwardContractMember" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BankOverdraftsAndLoansMember" xlink:label="snn_BankOverdraftsAndLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_BankOverdraftsAndLoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BankOverdraftsLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_BankOverdraftsLiabilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_BankOverdraftsLiabilitiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMember" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_CorporateBondsMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondInHedgeRelationshipMember" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondInHedgeRelationshipMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_CorporateBondsMember" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondInHedgeRelationshipMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementDebtNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtNotInHedgeRelationshipMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesMember" xlink:label="snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_TradeAndOtherPayablesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CartihealLtdMember" xlink:label="snn_CartihealLtdMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_CartihealLtdMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialAssetsAtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Assets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Liabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Liabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Liabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel1IntoLevel2OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel2IntoLevel1OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseAcquisitionConsideration" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseAcquisitionConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseAcquisitionConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationDiscountUnwind" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationDiscountUnwind" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationDiscountUnwind" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationThroughPaymentsMade" xlink:label="snn_DecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationThroughPaymentsMade" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DecreaseInAcquisitionConsiderationThroughPaymentsMade" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashTransferred" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementCorporateBondsAndPrivatePlacementDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941610 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Corporate bonds and private placement debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2034Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsMaturingInMarch2027Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2029Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfFinancialLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_PrivatePlacementDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsAndRiskManagementMovementOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941611 - Disclosure - Financial instruments and risk management - Movement of financial instruments (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradingEquitySecuritiesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradingEquitySecuritiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradingEquitySecuritiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AcquisitionConsiderationLiabilityMember" xlink:label="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationLiabilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_AcquisitionConsiderationLiabilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Assets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersIntoLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TransfersOutOfLevel3OfFairValueHierarchyAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialInstrumentsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Liabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Liabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Liabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchasesFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SettlementsFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SettlementsFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SettlementsFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInFairValueMeasurementLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainsLossesRecognisedInProfitOrLossFairValueMeasurementLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesChangesInProvisionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941701 - Disclosure - Provisions and contingencies - Changes in provisions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" xlink:label="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionalProvisionsOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionalProvisionsOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionalProvisionsOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_UnusedProvisionReversedOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_UnusedProvisionReversedOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_UnusedProvisionReversedOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTimeValueOfMoneyAdjustmentOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTimeValueOfMoneyAdjustmentOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTimeValueOfMoneyAdjustmentOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProvisionUsedOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProvisionUsedOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProvisionUsedOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesOtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesOtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ReconciliationOfChangesInOtherProvisionsAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesOtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesCurrentAndNonCurrentProvisionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941702 - Disclosure - Provisions and contingencies - Current and non-current provisions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RestructuringProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" xlink:label="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LegalProceedingsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherShorttermProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherShorttermProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherShorttermProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherLongtermProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherLongtermProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherLongtermProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherProvisions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TermOfExpectedProvisionUtilisation" xlink:label="snn_TermOfExpectedProvisionUtilisation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TermOfExpectedProvisionUtilisation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureProvisionsAndContingenciesLegalProceedingsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941704 - Disclosure - Provisions and contingencies - Legal proceedings (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfProvisionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" xlink:label="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfOtherProvisionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_MetalOnMetalHipClaimsProvisionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfLitigationSettlementClaimsOutstanding" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfLitigationSettlementClaimsOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfLitigationSettlementClaimsOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfModularComponents" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfModularComponents" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfOtherProvisionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfModularComponents" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941801 - Disclosure - Retirement benefit obligations (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="snn_OtherMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WhollyOrPartlyFundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WhollyOrPartlyFundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WhollyOrPartlyFundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WhollyUnfundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WhollyUnfundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_FundingArrangementsOfDefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WhollyUnfundedDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TerminationOfUsPensionPlanMember" xlink:label="snn_TerminationOfUsPensionPlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:to="snn_TerminationOfUsPensionPlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioForecastMember" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioForecastMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioForecastMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitObligationAtPresentValue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitObligationAtPresentValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitObligationAtPresentValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedLiabilitiesDefinedBenefitPlan" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedLiabilitiesDefinedBenefitPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedLiabilitiesDefinedBenefitPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedAssetsDefinedBenefitPlan" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedAssetsDefinedBenefitPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentRecognisedAssetsDefinedBenefitPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfCountriesInWhichGroupSponsorsDefinedBenefitPlans" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfCountriesInWhichGroupSponsorsDefinedBenefitPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfCountriesInWhichGroupSponsorsDefinedBenefitPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DefinedBenefitPlansEntitlementToRetirementBenefitAsPercentageOfFinalSalary" xlink:label="snn_DefinedBenefitPlansEntitlementToRetirementBenefitAsPercentageOfFinalSalary" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DefinedBenefitPlansEntitlementToRetirementBenefitAsPercentageOfFinalSalary" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfMajorDefinedBenefitPensionPlans" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfMajorDefinedBenefitPensionPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfMajorDefinedBenefitPensionPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TransactionValueOfBuyInToPensionFund" xlink:label="snn_TransactionValueOfBuyInToPensionFund" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TransactionValueOfBuyInToPensionFund" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherComprehensiveIncomeGainLossOnTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" xlink:label="snn_OtherComprehensiveIncomeGainLossOnTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_OtherComprehensiveIncomeGainLossOnTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CashInflowOutflowFromTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" xlink:label="snn_CashInflowOutflowFromTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CashInflowOutflowFromTrusteeBuyInToDefinedBenefitFund" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FundingPresentValueOfAccruedBenefitsTerm" xlink:label="snn_FundingPresentValueOfAccruedBenefitsTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_FundingPresentValueOfAccruedBenefitsTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PremiumAmountPaidWithRespectToSettlementOfPlan" xlink:label="snn_PremiumAmountPaidWithRespectToSettlementOfPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PremiumAmountPaidWithRespectToSettlementOfPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LumpSumPaidInExchangeForOutstandingPlanBenefits" xlink:label="snn_LumpSumPaidInExchangeForOutstandingPlanBenefits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LumpSumPaidInExchangeForOutstandingPlanBenefits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ExpenseRecognisedOnDifferenceBetweenLumpSumPaidAndDefinedBenefitObligation" xlink:label="snn_ExpenseRecognisedOnDifferenceBetweenLumpSumPaidAndDefinedBenefitObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ExpenseRecognisedOnDifferenceBetweenLumpSumPaidAndDefinedBenefitObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GainOnAnnuityPurchaseContractConnectedToTerminationOfPlan" xlink:label="snn_GainOnAnnuityPurchaseContractConnectedToTerminationOfPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GainOnAnnuityPurchaseContractConnectedToTerminationOfPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsReconciliationOfBenefitObligationsAndPensionAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941802 - Disclosure - Retirement benefit obligations - Reconciliation of benefit obligations and pension assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentMedicalDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="snn_OtherMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PresentValueOfDefinedBenefitObligationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PresentValueOfDefinedBenefitObligationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PresentValueOfDefinedBenefitObligationMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PlanAssetsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PlanAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PlanAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LiabilityAssetOfDefinedBenefitPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentServiceCostNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentServiceCostNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentServiceCostNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PastServiceCostAndGainsLossesArisingFromSettlementsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PastServiceCostAndGainsLossesArisingFromSettlementsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PastServiceCostAndGainsLossesArisingFromSettlementsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestExpenseIncomeNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestExpenseIncomeNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestExpenseIncomeNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AdministrativeCostsAndTaxesNetBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="snn_AdministrativeCostsAndTaxesNetBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_AdministrativeCostsAndTaxesNetBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromExpenseIncomeInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromExpenseIncomeInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromExpenseIncomeInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromExperienceAdjustmentsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromExperienceAdjustmentsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromExperienceAdjustmentsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInFinancialAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInFinancialAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInFinancialAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInDemographicAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInDemographicAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialGainsLossesArisingFromChangesInDemographicAssumptionsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ReturnOnPlanAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReturnOnPlanAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReturnOnPlanAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossOnRemeasurementOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossOnRemeasurementOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossOnRemeasurementOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromEmployerContributionsIncludingAdjustments" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromEmployerContributionsIncludingAdjustments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetResultingFromEmployerContributionsIncludingAdjustments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContributionsToPlanByPlanParticipantsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContributionsToPlanByPlanParticipantsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContributionsToPlanByPlanParticipantsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BenefitsPaidNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="snn_BenefitsPaidNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_BenefitsPaidNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BenefitsPaidDirectlyByGroupTaxesAndAdministrationCostsPaidFromSchemeAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="snn_BenefitsPaidDirectlyByGroupTaxesAndAdministrationCostsPaidFromSchemeAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_BenefitsPaidDirectlyByGroupTaxesAndAdministrationCostsPaidFromSchemeAssetsNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TotalIncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetFromNetCashChanges" xlink:label="snn_TotalIncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetFromNetCashChanges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="snn_TotalIncreaseDecreaseInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetFromNetCashChanges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughChangesInForeignExchangeRatesNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughChangesInForeignExchangeRatesNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughChangesInForeignExchangeRatesNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NetDefinedBenefitLiability" xlink:label="snn_NetDefinedBenefitLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NetDefinedBenefitLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NetDefinedBenefitAsset" xlink:label="snn_NetDefinedBenefitAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NetDefinedBenefitAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_WeightedAverageDurationOfDefinedBenefitObligation2019" xlink:label="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageDurationOfDefinedBenefitObligation2019" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNetDefinedBenefitLiabilityAssetLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_WeightedAverageDurationOfDefinedBenefitObligation2019" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPlanAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941803 - Disclosure - Retirement benefit obligations - Plan assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="snn_OtherMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Level2And3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Level2And3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_LevelsOfFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Level2And3OfFairValueHierarchyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_EquityInstrumentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EquityInstrumentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EquityInstrumentsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GovernmentBondsFixedInterestAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="snn_GovernmentBondsFixedInterestAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GovernmentBondsFixedInterestAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_QualifyingInsurancePoliciesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_QualifyingInsurancePoliciesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_QualifyingInsurancePoliciesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PropertyAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PropertyAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PropertyAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherQuotedSecuritiesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="snn_OtherQuotedSecuritiesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_OtherQuotedSecuritiesAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" xlink:label="snn_OtherBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_OtherBondsAmountContributedToFairValueOfPlanAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PlanAssetsAtFairValue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PlanAssetsAtFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PlanAssetsAtFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseInProfitOrLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedContributionPlans" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedContributionPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedContributionPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedBenefitPlans" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedBenefitPlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PostemploymentBenefitExpenseDefinedBenefitPlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DefinedContributionPlanContributionPayableToPlan" xlink:label="snn_DefinedContributionPlanContributionPayableToPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFairValueOfPlanAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DefinedContributionPlanContributionPayableToPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsPrincipalActuarialAssumptionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941804 - Disclosure - Retirement benefit obligations - Principal actuarial assumptions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRates" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRates" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfPensionIncreases" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfPensionIncreases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfPensionIncreases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationRetailPriceIndex" xlink:label="snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationRetailPriceIndex" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationRetailPriceIndex" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationConsumerPriceIndex" xlink:label="snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationConsumerPriceIndex" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationConsumerPriceIndex" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Male" xlink:label="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Male" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Male" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Female" xlink:label="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Female" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60Female" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeMale" xlink:label="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeMale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeMale" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeFemale" xlink:label="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeFemale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfDefinedBenefitPlansLineItems" xlink:to="snn_LifeExpectancyAtAge60In20YearsTimeFemale" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureRetirementBenefitObligationsSensitivityAnalysisDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941805 - Disclosure - Retirement benefit obligations - Sensitivity analysis (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DefinedBenefitPlansDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PensionDefinedBenefitPlansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" priority="7" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_GeographicalAreasDomain" xlink:to="country_US" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ActuarialAssumptionsOfDiscountAndInflationRatesMember" xlink:label="snn_ActuarialAssumptionsOfDiscountAndInflationRatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" xlink:to="snn_ActuarialAssumptionsOfDiscountAndInflationRatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_ActuarialAssumptionsOfDiscountAndInflationRatesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfDiscountRatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_ActuarialAssumptionsOfDiscountAndInflationRatesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfExpectedRatesOfInflationMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfMortalityRatesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfMortalityRatesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionsDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ActuarialAssumptionOfMortalityRatesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PercentageOfReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" xlink:label="snn_ReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" xlink:label="snn_ReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInLifeExpectancyMeasuredInPeriodOfTime" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleIncreaseInActuarialAssumption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInDefinedBenefitObligationDueToReasonablyPossibleDecreaseInActuarialAssumption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ContributionToPlanFunding" xlink:label="snn_ContributionToPlanFunding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ContributionToPlanFunding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ContributionToPlanSupplementaryPaymentsIncludedInFunding" xlink:label="snn_ContributionToPlanSupplementaryPaymentsIncludedInFunding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSensitivityAnalysisForActuarialAssumptionsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ContributionToPlanSupplementaryPaymentsIncludedInFunding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityShareCapitalDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941901 - Disclosure - Equity - Share Capital (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DeferredSharesMember" xlink:label="snn_DeferredSharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="snn_DeferredSharesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ParValuePerShare" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ParValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ParValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesAuthorised" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesAuthorised" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesAuthorised" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfSharesAuthorisedValue" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfSharesAuthorisedValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfSharesAuthorisedValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseNumberOfSharesThroughExerciseOfOptions" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseNumberOfSharesThroughExerciseOfOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseNumberOfSharesThroughExerciseOfOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Equity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FurtherDistributionsToAnyClassOtherThanDeferredShares" xlink:label="snn_FurtherDistributionsToAnyClassOtherThanDeferredShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="snn_FurtherDistributionsToAnyClassOtherThanDeferredShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityEquityComponentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941902 - Disclosure - Equity - Equity Components (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SharePremiumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CapitalRedemptionReserveMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RetainedEarningsAndOtherReservesMember" xlink:label="snn_RetainedEarningsAndOtherReservesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="snn_RetainedEarningsAndOtherReservesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Equity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquitySharesBuyBackDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941903 - Disclosure - Equity - Shares Buy-back (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" xlink:label="snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:to="snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_August2025ShareBuybackProgrammeMember" xlink:label="snn_August2025ShareBuybackProgrammeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="snn_August2025ShareBuybackProgrammeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" xlink:label="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" xlink:label="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesTransactionCosts" xlink:label="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesTransactionCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesTransactionCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PercentageOfWaiverOfDividendsOverTotalPaidDividends" xlink:label="snn_PercentageOfWaiverOfDividendsOverTotalPaidDividends" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PercentageOfWaiverOfDividendsOverTotalPaidDividends" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityTreasurySharesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941904 - Disclosure - Equity - Treasury Shares (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" xlink:label="snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:to="snn_TreasurySharesExcludingEmployeeShareTrustMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_EmployeesShareTrustMember" xlink:label="snn_EmployeesShareTrustMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:to="snn_EmployeesShareTrustMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfTreasuryShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseThroughCostOfSharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" xlink:label="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:to="snn_PurchaseOfTreasurySharesNumberOfShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" xlink:label="snn_SharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NumberOfSharesIssuedAbstract" xlink:to="snn_SharesTransferredToBeneficiaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureEquityDividendsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941905 - Disclosure - Equity - Dividends (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfShareCapitalDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OrdinarySharesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis" xlink:label="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" xlink:to="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_AllDividendsDomain" xlink:label="snn_AllDividendsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="snn_TypesOfDividendsAxis" xlink:to="snn_AllDividendsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinalDividendsMember" xlink:label="snn_FinalDividendsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_AllDividendsDomain" xlink:to="snn_FinalDividendsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_InterimDividendsMember" xlink:label="snn_InterimDividendsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_AllDividendsDomain" xlink:to="snn_InterimDividendsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersPerShare" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersPerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersPerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToPriorYears" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToPriorYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToPriorYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToCurrentYear" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToCurrentYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsRecognisedAsDistributionsToOwnersOfParentRelatingToCurrentYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwnersPerShare" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwnersPerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwnersPerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwners" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwners" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsProposedOrDeclaredBeforeFinancialStatementsAuthorisedForIssueButNotRecognisedAsDistributionToOwners" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DistributableReserves" xlink:label="snn_DistributableReserves" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfClassesOfShareCapitalLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DistributableReserves" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementAnalysisOfNetDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942001 - Disclosure - Cash flow statement - Analysis of net debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfLiabilitiesDomain" xlink:to="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BankOverdraftMember" xlink:label="snn_BankOverdraftMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="snn_BankOverdraftMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ShorttermBorrowingsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShorttermBorrowingsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShorttermBorrowingsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowingsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowingsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowingsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_TotalLiabilitiesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrencySwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DerivativesMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestRateSwapContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CashAtBankMember" xlink:label="snn_CashAtBankMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ClassesOfAssetsDomain" xlink:to="snn_CashAtBankMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDebt" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashChangesAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashChangesAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashChangesAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfChangesInFairValueAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfChangesInFairValueAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfChangesInFairValueAndForeignExchangeAdjustments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInLeaseLiability" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" xlink:label="snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_RepurchaseOfBorrowingsAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementReconciliationOfNetCashFlowToMovementInNetDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942002 - Disclosure - Cash flow statement - Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondMaturingOctober2030Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromSettlementOfCurrencySwaps" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromSettlementOfCurrencySwaps" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromSettlementOfCurrencySwaps" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughNetCashFlowsFromBorrowings" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughNetCashFlowsFromBorrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughNetCashFlowsFromBorrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtFromNetCashFlowBeforeEffectOfExchangeDifference" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfLeaseLiabilities" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfLeaseLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfLeaseLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashMovements" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashMovements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebtThroughEffectOfNonCashMovements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" xlink:label="snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_CorporateBondIssuanceExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebt" xlink:label="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IncreaseDecreaseInNetDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NetDebt" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" xlink:label="snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_GainOnRepurchaseOfBorrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GainLossArisingFromDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountOfFinancialLiabilityExtinguishedAndConsiderationPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashAndCashEquivalentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942003 - Disclosure - Cash flow statement - Cash and cash equivalents (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfFinancialAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BankOverdraftsClassifiedAsCashEquivalents" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BankOverdraftsClassifiedAsCashEquivalents" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BankOverdraftsClassifiedAsCashEquivalents" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPosition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfCountriesCompanyOperatesIn" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfCountriesCompanyOperatesIn" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsIfDifferentFromStatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfCountriesCompanyOperatesIn" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureCashFlowStatementCashOutflowsInflowsArisingFromFinancingActivitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942004 - Disclosure - Cash flow statement - Cash outflows/(inflows) arising from financing activities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsStatementTable" xlink:label="snn_IfrsStatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="snn_IfrsStatementTable" xlink:to="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" xlink:label="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationAxis" xlink:to="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsDebtMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsEquityMember" xlink:label="snn_IfrsEquityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_FinancingCashFlowsLocationDomain" xlink:to="snn_IfrsEquityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:label="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_IfrsStatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_RepaymentsOfCurrentAndNonCurrentBorrowings" xlink:label="snn_RepaymentsOfCurrentAndNonCurrentBorrowings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_RepaymentsOfCurrentAndNonCurrentBorrowings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProceedsFromIssueOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromIssueOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromIssueOfBondsNotesAndDebentures" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PaymentsOfLeaseLiabilitiesClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PaymentsOfLeaseLiabilitiesClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PaymentsOfLeaseLiabilitiesClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SettlementOfCurrencySwaps" xlink:label="snn_SettlementOfCurrencySwaps" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_SettlementOfCurrencySwaps" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsPaidToEquityHoldersOfParentClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsPaidToEquityHoldersOfParentClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsPaidToEquityHoldersOfParentClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ProceedsFromIssueOfOwnSharesAndOrdinaryShares" xlink:label="snn_ProceedsFromIssueOfOwnSharesAndOrdinaryShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ProceedsFromIssueOfOwnSharesAndOrdinaryShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="snn_DisclosureOfCashFlowStatementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942101 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_CartihealLtdMember" xlink:label="snn_CartihealLtdMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_CartihealLtdMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfBusinessesAcquiredBusinessCombination" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfBusinessesAcquiredBusinessCombination" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfBusinessesAcquiredBusinessCombination" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_UndiscountedValueOfContingentConsideration" xlink:label="snn_UndiscountedValueOfContingentConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_UndiscountedValueOfContingentConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ContingentConsiderationFinancePerformanceMilestoneAchievementPeriod" xlink:label="snn_ContingentConsiderationFinancePerformanceMilestoneAchievementPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ContingentConsiderationFinancePerformanceMilestoneAchievementPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashTransferred" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BusinessAcquisitionsEscrowDeposit" xlink:label="snn_BusinessAcquisitionsEscrowDeposit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_BusinessAcquisitionsEscrowDeposit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BusinessAcquisitionEscrowReleasePeriodFromCompletion" xlink:label="snn_BusinessAcquisitionEscrowReleasePeriodFromCompletion" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_BusinessAcquisitionEscrowReleasePeriodFromCompletion" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IdentifiableIntangibleAssetsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IdentifiableIntangibleAssetsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IdentifiableIntangibleAssetsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_InventoryRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InventoryRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InventoryRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalentsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="snn_OtherLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="snn_OtherLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherPayablesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NetDeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="snn_NetDeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="snn_NetDeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IdentifiableAssetsAcquiredLiabilitiesAssumed" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IdentifiableAssetsAcquiredLiabilitiesAssumed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IdentifiableAssetsAcquiredLiabilitiesAssumed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_GoodwillRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_GoodwillRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_GoodwillRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AcquisitiondateFairValueOfTotalConsiderationTransferred" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AcquisitiondateFairValueOfTotalConsiderationTransferred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AmountsRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDateForEachMajorClassOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AcquisitiondateFairValueOfTotalConsiderationTransferred" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PaymentsForAcquisitionsInCurrentYear" xlink:label="snn_PaymentsForAcquisitionsInCurrentYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PaymentsForAcquisitionsInCurrentYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PaymentsOfDeferredContingentConsideration" xlink:label="snn_PaymentsOfDeferredContingentConsideration" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PaymentsOfDeferredContingentConsideration" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_Goodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Goodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Goodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdditionalRecognitionGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLossGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfBusinessCombinationsLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughNetExchangeDifferencesGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsStockOptionsOutstandingDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942201 - Disclosure - Other notes to the accounts - Stock Options Outstanding (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BottomOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_RangeDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TopOfRangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTermsAndConditionsOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NumberOfOutstandingShareOptions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NumberOfOutstandingShareOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NumberOfOutstandingShareOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ExercisePriceOfOutstandingShareOptions2019" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ExercisePriceOfOutstandingShareOptions2019" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ExercisePriceOfOutstandingShareOptions2019" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NumberOfShareOptionsMaximumAvailableToGrant" xlink:label="snn_NumberOfShareOptionsMaximumAvailableToGrant" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="snn_NumberOfShareOptionsMaximumAvailableToGrant" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="snn_ShareOptionActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ExpenseFromSharebasedPaymentTransactionsWithEmployees" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureOtherNotesToAccountsRelatedPartyTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942202 - Disclosure - Other notes to the accounts - Related Party Transactions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelOfEntityOrParentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelOfEntityOrParentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CategoriesOfRelatedPartiesDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelOfEntityOrParentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesTable" xlink:to="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_OtherTradingTransactionsMember" xlink:label="snn_OtherTradingTransactionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="snn_IfrsRelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="snn_OtherTradingTransactionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TransactionAmountRelatedPartyTransactions" xlink:label="snn_TransactionAmountRelatedPartyTransactions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_TransactionAmountRelatedPartyTransactions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationShorttermEmployeeBenefits" xlink:label="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationShorttermEmployeeBenefits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationShorttermEmployeeBenefits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationSharebasedPayment" xlink:label="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationSharebasedPayment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationSharebasedPayment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationPostemploymentBenefits" xlink:label="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationPostemploymentBenefits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensationPostemploymentBenefits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensation" xlink:label="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfTransactionsBetweenRelatedPartiesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_KeyManagementPersonnelCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosurePostBalanceSheetEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942301 - Disclosure - Post balance sheet events (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:to="ifrs-full_MajorBusinessCombinationMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" xlink:label="snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_NonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodDomain" xlink:to="snn_MajorDebtTransactionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" xlink:label="snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsDomain" xlink:to="snn_IntegrityOrthopaedicsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_BorrowingsByNameDomain" xlink:to="snn_SyndicatedRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PercentageOfVotingEquityInterestsAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashTransferred" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashTransferred" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ContingentConsiderationRecognisedAsOfAcquisitionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsUsedInObtainingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfNonadjustingEventsAfterReportingPeriodLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.smith-nephew.com/role/DisclosureGroupCompaniesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99942401 - Disclosure - Group companies (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:label="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SerdaB.v.Member" xlink:label="snn_SerdaB.v.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="snn_SerdaB.v.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BioventusMember" xlink:label="snn_BioventusMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="snn_BioventusMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_BioventusLlcMember" xlink:label="snn_BioventusLlcMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="snn_BioventusLlcMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_IntrafuseLlcInvestmentMember" xlink:label="snn_IntrafuseLlcInvestmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInAssociatesDomain" xlink:to="snn_IntrafuseLlcInvestmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesTable" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MichelsonDiagnosticLimitedMember" xlink:label="snn_MichelsonDiagnosticLimitedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_MichelsonDiagnosticLimitedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NeotherixLimitedMember" xlink:label="snn_NeotherixLimitedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_NeotherixLimitedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_LuminaAdhesivesAbMember" xlink:label="snn_LuminaAdhesivesAbMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_LuminaAdhesivesAbMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_NaviswissAgMember" xlink:label="snn_NaviswissAgMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_NaviswissAgMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MesoblastLtdMember" xlink:label="snn_MesoblastLtdMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_MesoblastLtdMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TeamfundLpMember" xlink:label="snn_TeamfundLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_TeamfundLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_MiachOrthopaedicsIncMember" xlink:label="snn_MiachOrthopaedicsIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_MiachOrthopaedicsIncMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_SinopsysSurgicalInc.Member" xlink:label="snn_SinopsysSurgicalInc.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_SinopsysSurgicalInc.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_TriceMedicalInc.Member" xlink:label="snn_TriceMedicalInc.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="snn_TriceMedicalInc.Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInOtherEntity" xlink:label="snn_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInOtherEntity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInOtherEntity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2025-03-27/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2025-03-27.xsd#ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProportionOfOwnershipInterestInAssociate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="snn-20251231.xsd#snn_PercentageOfEconomicInterestHeldInAssociate" xlink:label="snn_PercentageOfEconomicInterestHeldInAssociate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems" xlink:to="snn_PercentageOfEconomicInterestHeldInAssociate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
