Distinct

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /dɪˈstɪŋkt/
• Rhymes: -ɪŋkt

Origin

From Middle English, from Old French, from Latin distinctus, past participle of distinguere ("to distinguish"); see distinguish.

Full definition of distinct

Adjective

1. Capable of being perceived very clearly.
• 2013, Fenella Saunders, Tiny Lenses See the Big Picture, The single-imaging optic of the mammalian eye offers some distinct visual advantages. Such lenses can take in photons from a wide range of angles, increasing light sensitivity. They also have high spatial resolution, resolving incoming images in minute detail.
2. Her voice was distinct despite the heavy traffic.
3. Different from one another (with the preferable adposition being "from").
• 1928, Lawrence R. Bourne, Well Tackled! Chapter 13, “Yes, there are two distinct sets of footprints, both wearing rubber shoes—one I think ordinary plimsolls, the other goloshes,” replied the sergeant.
4. Horses are distinct from zebras.
5. Noticeably different from others; distinctive.
   Olga's voice is quite distinct because of her accent.
6. Separate in place; not conjunct or united; with from.
• ClarendonThe intention was that the two armies which marched out together should afterward be distinct.
7. (obsolete) Distinguished; having the difference marked; separated by a visible sign; marked out; specified.
• MiltonWherever thus created — for no place
  Is yet distinct by name.
8. (obsolete) Marked; variegated.
• SpenserThe which place was dight
  With divers flowers distinct with rare delight.

Synonyms

• prominent
• separate
• several (in dated sense)

Antonyms

• indistinct

Related terms

• distinction
• distinctive
• distinguish
• distinguished
• distinguishable
• distinguishness