distinguish
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distinguish
- /dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/
Rhymes with -ɪŋɡwɪʃ
Where it comes from
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.
verb distinguishes · distinguishing · distinguished
- 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.
- To see someone or something clearly or distinctly.
- To make noticeably different or better from others through accomplishments. The soldier distinguished himself in combat and received a medal.
- To confer an honor upon. The soldier was distinguished with a medal for his bravery.
- To make to differ. For who diſtinguiſheth thee?
