distinction Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a discrimination between things as different and distinct
differentiation.
- it is necessary to make a distinction between love and infatuation
noun high status importance owing to marked superiority
note; eminence; preeminence.
- a scholar of great eminence
noun a distinguishing quality
- it has the distinction of being the cheapest restaurant in town
noun a distinguishing difference
- he learned the distinction between gold and lead

L. distinctio: cf. F. distinction.

A marking off by visible signs; separation into parts; division. Obs.
The distinction of tragedy into acts was not known. Dryden.
The act of distinguishing or denoting the differences between objects, or the qualities by which one is known from others; exercise of discernment; discrimination.
To take away therefore that error, which confusion breedeth, distinction is requisite. Hooker.
That which distinguishes one thing from another; distinguishing quality; sharply defined difference; as, the distinction between real and apparent good.
The distinction betwixt the animal kingdom and the inferior parts of matter. Locke.
Estimation of difference; regard to differences or distinguishing circumstance.
Maids, women, wives, without distinction, fall. Dryden.
Conspicuous station; eminence; superiority; honorable estimation; as, a man of distinction.
Your country's own means of distinction and defense. D. Webster.
Syn. -- Difference; variation, variety; contrast; diversity; contrariety; disagreement; discrimination; preference; superiority; rank; note; eminence.