diff

¹

[ dif ]

noun

1. Informal. difference:

   What’s the diff if I go Tuesday or Wednesday?

2. Computers. an operation that computes and displays the data difference or differences between two files, usually between two versions of the same file: Go back to the original program files you downloaded and run a diff to see what has changed.

   Before you submit your work, always do a diff on it.

   Go back to the original program files you downloaded and run a diff to see what has changed.

verb (used with object)

1. Computers. to compare (data files) and display the difference or differences:

   It’s easier to diff the files if they are in the same repository.

diff.

²

abbreviation for

1. difference.
2. different.

Word History and Origins

Origin of diff¹

First recorded in 1600–25; by shortening

Example Sentences

Software that constantly compares the individual speeds of each wheel to the overall speed of the vehicle will enable the motors to match the speeds of all four wheels, mimicking the function of four-wheel drive and locking diffs.

From Outside Online

Underneath my name, in black ballpoint pen, it says: Abd pain; Diff breathing; Inhalation.

From The Daily Beast

“Critics say my intv was no diff than any other and then criticize anyway,” he continued.

From The Daily Beast

He lets her buy his cravats an' his seegars an' 'tis little diff'rence it makes to him which he smokes.

From Project Gutenberg

He weighs ye befure ye die an' he weighs ye afther ye die, an' th' diff'rence is what ye'er soul weighs.

From Project Gutenberg

But it don't make anny diff'rence what counthry a king comes from so long as he don't come fr'm th' counthry where he's king.

From Project Gutenberg

But whin Abdul, be damid, as th' potes call him, made th' mistake iv pokin' his head out iv th' palace 'twas diff'rent.

From Project Gutenberg

Now I wish I'd done diff'rent; but it's too late to get back what I missed by dodgin' lessons.

From Project Gutenberg