distinguish

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   mark as different

   We distinguish several kinds of maple

2. 2
   verb

   To recognize someone or something as different from others based on its characteristics.

   It had begun to take a leading place even in the days of the Ptolemies, and in scientific, as distinguished from purely literary work, it had assumed a position of primary importance early in the Christian era.

3. 3
   verb

   To make noticeably different or better from others through accomplishments.

   The soldier distinguished himself in combat and received a medal.

4. 4
   verb

   To confer an honor upon.

   The soldier was distinguished with a medal for his bravery.

5. 5
   verb

   To make to differ.

   For who diſtinguiſheth thee?

6. 6
   verb

   be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait

7. 7
   verb

   identify as in botany or biology, for example

8. 8
   verb

   make conspicuous or noteworthy

Etymology

From Middle English distingwen, from Old French distinguer, from Latin distinguere (“to separate, divide, distinguish, set off, adorn, literally mark off”), from di-, dis- (“apart”) + stinguere, related to English stink. Compare extinguish.