Definition of differential
1a : of, relating to, or constituting a difference : distinguishing differential characteristicsb : making a distinction between individuals or classes differential tax ratesc : based on or resulting from a differentiald : functioning or proceeding differently or at a different rate differential melting
2 mathematics : being, relating to, or involving a differential (see 2differential 1) or differentiation
3 physics a : relating to quantitative differences (as of motion or pressure)b : producing effects by reason of quantitative differences
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Examples of differential in a Sentence
did away with differential pay scales for men and women doing the same work
Origin and Etymology of differential
see 1different
differential
Definition of differential
1 mathematics a : the product (see product 1) of the derivative of a function of one variable by the increment of the independent variableb : a sum of products in which each product consists of a partial derivative of a given function of several variables multiplied by the corresponding increment and which contains as many products as there are independent variables in the function
2 : a difference between comparable individuals or classes a price differential; also : the amount of such a difference
3a : a drivetrain gear assembly connecting two collinear shafts or axles (such as those of the rear wheels of an automobile) and permitting one shaft to revolve faster than the other a locking rear differentialb : a case covering such an assembly
Origin and Etymology of differential
see 1different
DIFFERENTIAL Defined for English Language Learners
differential
playDefinition of differential for English Language Learners
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: relating to or based on a difference : treating some people or groups differently from others
differential
Definition of differential for English Language Learners
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: a difference between people or things
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: a gear or an arrangement of gears in a vehicle that allows one wheel to turn faster than another when the vehicle is going around a curve
Medical Dictionary
differential
playMedical Definition of differential
1: of, relating to, or constituting a difference differential birth rates in different economic levels
2: making a distinction between individuals or classes differential cell counts differential staining
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for differential Nglish: Translation of differential for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of differential for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about differential
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