'Distinction' definitions:

Definition of 'distinction'

From: WordNet
noun
A discrimination between things as different and distinct; "it is necessary to make a distinction between love and infatuation" [syn: differentiation, distinction]
noun
High status importance owing to marked superiority; "a scholar of great eminence" [syn: eminence, distinction, preeminence, note]
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"

Definition of 'Distinction'

From: GCIDE
  • Distinction \Dis*tinc"tion\, n. [L. distinctio: cf. F. distinction.]
  • 1. A marking off by visible signs; separation into parts; division. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
  • The distinction of tragedy into acts was not known. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The act of distinguishing or denoting the differences between objects, or the qualities by which one is known from others; exercise of discernment; discrimination. [1913 Webster]
  • To take away therefore that error, which confusion breedeth, distinction is requisite. --Hooker. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. That which distinguishes one thing from another; distinguishing quality; sharply defined difference; as, the distinction between real and apparent good. [1913 Webster]
  • The distinction betwixt the animal kingdom and the inferior parts of matter. --Locke. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. Estimation of difference; regard to differences or distinguishing circumstance. [1913 Webster]
  • Maids, women, wives, without distinction, fall. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. Conspicuous station; eminence; superiority; honorable estimation; as, a man of distinction. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]

Synonyms of 'distinction'

From: Moby Thesaurus