Definition of DIFFERENTIATED (original) (raw)

transitive verb

2

: to mark or show a difference in : constitute a contrasting element that distinguishes

features that differentiate the twins

how we differentiate ourselves from our competitors

3

: to develop differential or distinguishing characteristics in

What differentiated a laborer from another man …—Sherwood Anderson

4

biology : to cause differentiation (see differentiation sense 3b) of in the course of development

cells that are differentiated from stem cells

5

: to express the specific distinguishing quality of : discriminate

differentiate poetry and prose

intransitive verb

1

: to recognize or give expression to a difference

difficult to differentiate between the two

2

: to become distinct or different in character

Synonyms

Examples of differentiate in a Sentence

The only thing that differentiates the twins is the color of their eyes. it was hard at first to differentiate between the two styles of music

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

The partners said the deal will help deliver new fan experiences, a deeper music and video catalog, further paid subscription tiers, and differentiated content bundles. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 6 Feb. 2025 The figures provided by the ministry do not differentiate between combatants and civilians. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Feb. 2025 What differentiates cowlick bangs from other styles — baby bangs, curtain bangs, '70s bangs — is its movement and shape. —Megan Decker, refinery29.com, 31 Jan. 2025 However, researchers did not differentiate between the different types of tea. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for differentiate

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from Medieval Latin differentiātus, past participle of differentiāre "to distinguish" (New Latin in mathematical sense), verbal derivative of Latin differentia difference entry 1

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of differentiate was in 1814

Dictionary Entries Near differentiate

Cite this Entry

“Differentiate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/differentiate. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

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Last Updated: 9 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences

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