distinct

adjective

dis·​tinct di-ˈstiŋ(k)t 

1

: distinguishable to the eye or mind as being discrete (see discrete sense 1) or not the same : 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 (see apprehend sense 2a)

a distinct possibility of snow

a distinct British accent

the distinct odor of sulfur

distinctly

di-ˈstiŋ(k)-tlē 

-ˈstiŋ-klē

adverb

distinctness

di-ˈstiŋ(k)t-nəs 

-ˈstiŋk-nəs

noun

Synonyms of distinct

• different
• distinctive
• diverse
• distinguishable

Choose the Right Synonym for 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

Examples of distinct in a Sentence

There are three distinct categories.

Each herb has its own distinct flavor.

The phrase has three distinct meanings.

There was the distinct smell of something burning.

The outline became less and less distinct as the light faded.

We had the distinct impression that they were lying.

Recent Examples on the Web

Dropping into the Championship felt like a distinct possibility for the ninth-richest club in the world, but the Italian pulled them back from the brink. —Jay Harris, New York Times, 27 May 2026

Indigenous citizens of many distinct nations, too, crafted a relatively expansive vision of unity, one nurtured by kinship, diplomacy, and religion. —Literary Hub, 26 May 2026

The upcoming runway show will highlight Italian creativity, craftsmanship, design research and distinct identity for Made in Italy brands across swimwear, resortwear, beachwear, fashion and accessories. —Footwear News, 26 May 2026

Corfield broke the concept of enterprise trust into three distinct layers, each a separate question a potential partner must answer before committing. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 26 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin distinctus, from past participle of distinguere — see distinguish

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing distinct

• as distinct from

Rhymes for distinct

• extinct
• hoodwinked
• precinct
• succinct
• unlinked
• blinked
• clinked
• inked
• kinked
• linked
• tinct
• winked

Kids Definition

distinct

adjective

dis·​tinct dis-ˈtiŋ(k)t 

1

: real and different from each other

five distinct varieties

pears as distinct from apples

2

: clearly seen, heard, or understood : plain, unmistakable

speaks with a distinct accent

a distinct possibility

3

: notable

made a distinct contribution to science

distinctly adverb

distinctness noun