Main Entry:

dis·tinct

Pronunciation:

\di-ˈstiŋ(k)t\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle English, from Latin distinctus, from past participle of distinguere

Date:

14th century

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>3archaic : notably decorated4 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

synonyms 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