I. ˈdifərn(t)s, -f(ə)rən-, -R sometimes -fən- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin differentia, from different-, differens + -ia
1.
a. : the quality or state of being different
great difference between the two ideas
b. : an instance of differing in nature, form, or quality
differences in the manufacturing process result in a wide variety of flavors
: a property or characteristic in which things or persons differ
differences in color and texture between the two fabrics
c. archaic : a characteristic that distinguishes one person or thing from another or from the general
an absolute gentleman full of the most excellent differences — Shakespeare
d. : differentia 1
e. : the element or factor that separates or distinguishes two contrasting situations or events
water is the difference between profit and loss to these farmers
2. : distinction or discrimination in preference or choice
the law should make no difference between the rich and the poor
3. : disagreement in opinion : dissension , controversy
there has never been any difference between the two men
: an instance of disagreement or a point upon which there is disagreement
nationalists have always used force to settle their differences — H.S.Fowler
4.
a. : the degree or amount by which things differ in quantity or measure
10 cents difference in price
specifically : the result obtained by subtracting one magnitude, number, or function from another of the same kind
b. : the amount payable to or by a seller on the occasion of the sale of securities or commodities originally purchased by him as a speculation without intention to take physical possession and representing the change in price
c. : the amount paid or allowed for the delivery of a quality of produce better or poorer than that on which the contract price is based
5. : an addition to or change in a coat of arms to distinguish the bearings of two persons which would otherwise be the same — compare augmentation 6, cadency mark
6. : a significant change in a situation : a significant effect on a situation
what's the difference whether I go or not
streamlining did not make much difference
Synonyms: see dissimilarity
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English differencen, from difference, n.
1.
a. : to make different : differentiate or distinguish in nature or character
every individual has something that differences it from another — John Locke
b. : to make a distinction between (as in the mind) : discriminate , differentiate
difference gods from men — George Chapman
2. : to make a heraldic difference in (a coat of arms)
III. transitive verb
: to compute the difference between