distinction

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A clear difference between two or more things.

   It is important to make a distinction between love and infatuation.

2. 2
   noun

   A special quality or feature that makes someone or something stand out.

   It has the distinction of being the cheapest restaurant in town.

3. 3
   noun

   Great respect and high status earned through excellence.

   She is a violinist of real distinction.

From Middle English distinccioun, from Old French distinction (attested from the 12th century), borrowed from Latin distinctiōnem, action noun of distinguō (“separate, distinguish”). Attested in English from the late 14th century.

Topics