DISTINCTION

distinction

(noun) a distinguishing difference between similar things or people; “he learned the distinction between gold and lead”

differentiation, distinction

(noun) a discrimination between things as different and distinct on the basis of their characteristics or attributes; “it is necessary to make a distinction between love and infatuation”

distinction

(noun) an honor awarded to someone in recognition of achievement or superiority; “she graduated with the highest distinction”

eminence, distinction, preeminence, note

(noun) high status importance owing to marked superiority; “a scholar of great eminence”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

distinction (countable and uncountable, plural distinctions)

That which distinguishes; a single occurrence of a determining factor or feature, the fact of being divided; separation, discrimination.

The act of distinguishing, discriminating; discrimination.

Specifically, a feature that causes someone or something to stand out as being better; a mark of honour, rank, eminence or excellence; being distinguished.

Antonyms

• (that which distinguishes): confusion

Source: Wiktionary

Dis*tinc"tion, n. Etym: [L. distinctio: cf. F. distinction.]

1. A marking off by visible signs; separation into parts; division. [Obs.] The distinction of tragedy into acts was not known. Dryden.

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. To take away therefore that error, which confusion breedeth, distinction is requisite. Hooker.

3. That which distinguishes one thing from another; distinguishing quality; sharply defined difference; as, the distinction between real and apparent good. The distinction betwixt the animal kingdom and the inferior parts of matter. Locke.

4. Estimation of difference; regard to differences or distinguishing circumstance. Maids, women, wives, without distinction, fall. Dryden.

5. Conspicuous station; eminence; superiority; honorable estimation; as, a man of distinction. 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.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition