First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
distant
adjective dis·tant \ˈdis-tənt\
: existing or happening far away in space : separated by space
: far away in time : happening far in the past or far into the future
: having to do with something that is not related to what is happening where you are or at the present time
Full Definition of DISTANT
1
2
: separated in a relationship other than spatial <a distant cousin> <the distant past>
3
: different in kind <from two very distant backgrounds>
4
: reserved or aloof in personal relationship : cold <was distant and distracted>
5
a : going a long distance <distant voyages> b : concerned with remote things <distant thoughts>
— dis·tant·ly adverb
— dis·tant·ness noun
See distant defined for English-language learners
See distant defined for kids
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Origin of DISTANT
Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin distant-, distans, present participle of distare to stand apart, be distant, from dis- + stare to stand — more at stand
DISTANTNESS Defined for Kids
distant
adjective dis·tant \ˈdi-stənt\
Definition of DISTANT for Kids
1
: existing or happening at a place far away <a distant planet> <distant thunder>
2
: far away in time <the distant future>
3
: not closely related <distant cousins>
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