distinguishing

[ dih-sting-gwi-shing ]

adjective

1. distinctive; characteristic, as a definitive feature of an individual or group:

   Intricate rhyming is a distinguishing feature of her poetry.

Other Words From

• dis·tinguish·ing·ly adverb
• nondis·tinguish·ing adjective
• self-dis·tinguish·ing adjective
• undis·tinguish·ing adjective
• undis·tinguish·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of distinguishing¹

First recorded in 1660–70; distinguish + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Respecting democracy, even when disappointed by its results — even, in this case, when many fear the consequences for the freedom and fairness of future elections — is a distinguishing feature between the two parties: one side does it and one side did not.

From Salon

Those select few that have been approved have a hard time distinguishing between toxic metals and essential nutrients.

From Los Angeles Times

They learned that human noses are much faster than previously believed, distinguishing between different odors in an interval as short as 60 milliseconds on average.

From Salon

Gentry made clear in his statement that his decision has “absolutely nothing to do” with playing time or name, image and likeness revenue opportunities, distinguishing himself from other athletes who redshirted.

From Los Angeles Times

Shortly before 08:00 an Israeli drone, known as a Zik, arrived, but it had difficulty distinguishing between Israeli soldiers and Hamas, according to the IDF account, which meant it was slower to attack its intended targets.

From BBC