distinctive feature

noun

, Linguistics.

1. a feature of the sound system of a language that serves as the crucial distinguishing mark between two phonemes, as the distinctive feature of voicing, which distinguishes b from p in English, or nasality, which distinguishes m from b and p.
2. any of a set of phonetic properties, as coronal, nasal, or strident, serving as a basic unit of phonological analysis by which the sounds that are significant in a language can be characterized and distinguished from one another.
3. a component or phonetic feature characterizing a phoneme.

Word History and Origins

Origin of distinctive feature¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

We were able to locate the six videos we analysed, which were all filmed in the eastern side of Kherson, by identifying distinctive features in the city streets.

From BBC

Based on these distinctive features the astronomers involved in the study suggest that the stars were torn from the outskirts of galaxies and from the complete disruption of smaller cluster galaxies, known as dwarfs.

From Science Daily

Sharma and her collaborators grouped codas based on distinct clusters of tempos and rhythms, and found new, distinctive features.

From Science Magazine

Eyelash vipers stand out due to a distinctive feature: a set of enlarged spine-like scales positioned atop their eyes.

From Science Daily

In contrast, Mrs Mason said it was easier to show the likeness of the Grinch due to his distinctive features, remarking: "The more gruesome and weird you make the face, the better."

From BBC