First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
distinct
adjective dis·tinct \di-ˈstiŋ(k)t\
: different in a way that you can see, hear, smell, feel, etc. : noticeably different
: easy to see, hear, smell, feel, etc.
: strong and definite
Full Definition of DISTINCT
1
: distinguishable to the eye or mind as discrete : separate <a distinct cultural group> <teaching as distinct from research>
2
: presenting a clear unmistakable impression <a neat distinct handwriting>
3
archaic : notably decorated
4
a : notable <a distinct contribution to scholarship> b : readily and unmistakably apprehended <a distinct possibility of snow> <a distinct British accent>
— dis·tinct·ly \-ˈstiŋ(k)-tlē, -ˈstiŋ-klē\ adverb
— dis·tinct·ness \-ˈstiŋ(k)t-nəs, -ˈstiŋk-nəs\ noun
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Origin of DISTINCT
Middle English, from Latin distinctus, from past participle of distinguere
Related to DISTINCT
- Synonyms
- disparate, dissimilar, distant, different, distinctive, distinguishable, diverse, nonidentical, other, unalike, unlike
Synonym Discussion of DISTINCT
distinct, separate, discrete mean not being each and every one the same. distinct indicates that something is distinguished by the mind or eye as being apart or different from others <two distinct versions>. separate often stresses lack of connection or a difference in identity between two things <separate rooms>. discrete strongly emphasizes individuality and lack of connection <broke the job down into discrete stages>.
synonyms see in addition evident
Rhymes with DISTINCT
DISTINCTLY Defined for Kids
distinct
adjective dis·tinct \di-ˈstiŋkt\
Definition of DISTINCT for Kids
1
: different from each other <distinct species>
2
: easy to notice or understand <a distinct odor>
— dis·tinct·ly adverb
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