differencen.1
/ˈdɪf(ə)rəns/, /ˈdɪf(ə)rn̩s/, U.S. /ˈdɪf(ə)rəns/ 1.
a. The condition, quality, or fact of being different; dissimilarity; an instance of this.Frequently with between, from, †of, etc., in constructions specifying the two or more things which differ from each other.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > [noun]
diversitya1340
difference1340
variancec1374
distancea1382
unlikenessa1387
variationc1405
discrepation?a1425
distinction1435
severaltyc1449
unlikelinessc1450
dissemblance1463
unlikelihood1483
alteritya1500
indifferencec1503
discrepancea1522
dissimilitude1532
differency1542
variety1552
discernment1570
disparitya1575
discrepancy1579
otherness1587
discernance1592
imparity1608
disanalogy1610
disresemblance1622
dislikeness1623
diff1624
inconformity1625
irresemblance1628
variousness1628
odds1642
disparation1654
aliety1656
disparility1656
disparateness1659
severality1664
nonconformity1672
unconformableness1712
dissimilarity1715
differentness1727
differ1787
allogeneitya1834
otherwiseness1890
otherliness1937
diversion-
1340 Ayenbite (1866) 210 Zuyche difference is betune [read betuene] þe rearde of þe bene and þe deuocioun of þe herte.
1488 (c1478) Hary Actis & Deidis Schir William Wallace (Adv.) (1968–9) iv. l. 7 The changing cours quhilk makis gret deference.
1490 W. Caxton in tr. Boke yf Eneydos sig. Bvii And firste to shewe the dyfference [Fr. differance] of Iohn bochace and of vyrgyle.
1526 W. Tyndale Doctr. Treat. (1848) 389 Note the difference of the law and of the gospel.
1557 T. North tr. A. de Guevara Diall Princes f. 210v/1 There is great difference from the cares and sorowes of women, to that of men.
a1616 W. Shakespeare Winter's Tale (1623) i. i. 3 You shall see..great difference betwixt our Bohemia, and your Sicilia. View more context for this quotation
1671 H. M. tr. Erasmus Colloquies 354 There is also another difference of divine and humane laws.
1765 J. Fothergill Considerations Relative to N. Amer. Colonies 36 How many People are there..who know no Difference between the Inhabitants of North America, and those of the West-India Islands?
1792 Elvina I. 6 The difference with us is most striking.
1820 W. Whewell in J. M. Douglas Life & Corr. W. Whewell (1881) 61 Some idea of the difference of French and English manners.
1847 Ld. Tennyson Princess vii. 156 Not like to like, but like in difference.
1922 E. D. Baker Parenthood & Child Nurture vii. 102 This child knows the difference between fact and fiction.
1935 C. J. Smith Intermediate Physics (ed. 2) v. xlviii. 808 A current flows in a circuit consisting of two wires of different materials as long as there is a difference in temperature between the two junctions.
1989 New Scientist 9 Dec. 55/1 We should..abandon the pursuit of equal opportunities; rather, we should celebrate difference.
2013 Wall St. Jrnl. 12 Jan. d10/3 Standard-issue Apple earbuds got a modest boost..but the difference was dramatic with the..two over-ear headphones.
b. A particular way in which two or more things differ; a point of dissimilarity.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > [noun] > a difference or distinction
shedc950
diversityc1340
differencea1382
differencea1393
severance1422
distinction1435
discretivec1487
differing1528
unlikeness1561
distinguishment1592
fork1639
discrimen1644
misresemblancea1693
bright line1842
a1393 J. Gower Confessio Amantis (Fairf.) vi. l. 552 Ther is non evidence Wherof to knowe a difference Betwen the drunken and the wode.
c1460 (a1449) J. Lydgate Minor Poems (1934) ii. 781 A difference atwix[en] day and nyght.
a1535 T. More Hist. Richard III in Wks. (1557) 59/1 There is betwene no merchant & his..maid so gret difference, as betwene ye king and this widowe.
1584 J. Rainolds & J. Hart Summe of Conf. vii. 346 He noteth two differences betweene a shepeheard and a theefe.
1603 P. Holland tr. Plutarch Morals 815 The Stoicks, and Epicurus doe holde, that there is a difference betweene Voidnesse, Place, and Roome.
1688 Vox Cleri Pro Rege 47 It seems his Power is absolute, but, not arbitrary, which is, like a Dear-Joy's Witticism, a distinction without a difference.
1729 Brit. Jrnl. 15 Feb. 1/1 There is one Difference between us and the rest of our Fellow-Creatures.
1795 J. Macknight New Literal Transl. Apostolical Epist. I. 318 There is a difference between the profession, and the confession of our faith.
1856 J. A. Froude Hist. Eng. (1858) I. i. 15 While the differences of social degree were enormous, the differences in habits of life were comparatively slight.
1890 New Albany (Indiana) Daily Ledger 15 Dec. 7/2 Their colors and shapes appear with so many differences that it is almost incredible that they belong to one family.
1951 S. Spender World within World ii. 58 The differences between us remained more striking than the resemblances.
1993 R. Foley Working without Net iii. 110 Even so, there is a difference, and it is theoretically important.
2. A distinction made between two or more things. Now only in to make a difference: see Phrases 2a.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > [noun] > a difference or distinction
shedc950
diversityc1340
differencea1382
differencea1393
severance1422
distinction1435
discretivec1487
differing1528
unlikeness1561
distinguishment1592
fork1639
discrimen1644
misresemblancea1693
bright line1842
the mind > attention and judgement > judgement or decision > discernment, discrimination > [noun] > instance of
differencea1382
discretivec1487
discrimination1621
discriminance1642
sizeism1971
a1382 Bible (Wycliffite, E.V.) (Douce 369(1)) (1850) 3 Esdras iv. 39 To taken persones and differencis [L. differentias] is not anent it [sc. truth].
1483 W. Caxton in tr. J. de Voragine Golden Legende f. cccxxvii/1 He vysyted the seek folke without dyfference.
1551 R. Record Pathway to Knowl. i. Defin. Those [sc. squares] that haue only the contrary sydes equal,..those wyll I call likeiammys, for a difference.
1581 W. Lambarde Eirenarcha (1588) iv. v. 497 Sundry other daintie and nice differences doth M. Marrow make.
a1616 W. Shakespeare Merry Wives of Windsor (1623) ii. i. 54 I shall thinke the worse of fat men, as long as I haue an eye to make difference of mens liking. View more context for this quotation
1662 E. Stillingfleet Origines Sacræ ii. ii. §2 To make them more capable of putting a difference between truth and falshood.
1745 J. Wesley Farther Appeal ii. 49 Do you put a Difference between the Holy and the Profane, him that feareth God, and him that feareth him not?
1819 P. B. Shelley Cenci v. iv. 101 No difference has been made by God or man..'Twixt good or evil, as regarded me.
3. A disagreement of opinion or sentiment; a dispute or quarrel, (in early use) esp. one involving open hostility or violent conflict. Now chiefly in plural.
ΘΚΠ
society > society and the community > dissent > [noun] > state or instance of
distancec1300
differencea1387
variancec1425
different?1483
differinga1525
displeasure1550
differ1566
distaste1621
disgusta1665
disaccommodationa1676
differency1707
fallout1725
collision1839
upset1887
contretemps1961
a1387 J. Trevisa tr. R. Higden Polychron. (St. John's Cambr.) (1871) III. 423 Touching þe cause þerof is no differens bytwene us [L. non differimus].
1484 W. Caxton tr. Subtyl Historyes & Fables Esope ii. xviii. f. lii The ape..made theyr dyfference to be acorded.
c1503 J. Younge Fyancells of Margaret in Leland's De Rebus Brit. Collectanea (1770) IV. 288 The King called them before hym, and demaunded them the Cause of ther Difference.
1556 tr. J. de Flores Histoire de Aurelio & Isabelle sig. B2 We cast lottes betwene vs, by the which our difference shall finishe.
1606 G. W. tr. Justinus Hist. f. 40v They encountred in battell, in which difference..they were ouercome.
1652 M. Nedham tr. J. Selden Of Dominion of Sea 1 In the year 1508, there began certain slight differences, which concluded in a notable..war.
1727 D. Defoe Compl. Eng. Tradesman II. i. xii. 288 He will bring all Differences to a friendly Accommodation.
1791 J. Boswell Life Johnson anno 1778 II. 275 In the course of this year there was a difference between him and his friend Mr. Strahan.
1849 T. B. Macaulay Hist. Eng. II. 143 He had never, he said, in his life, had any difference with Tyrconnel, and he trusted that no difference would now arise.
1893 Leeds Mercury 17 May 5/1 The speedy..settlement of trade differences.
1922 Painter & Decorator Aug. 358/1 The workers and the employers can meet, discuss their differences, and find a way to keep things going for a time.
1941 Washington (Writers' Program) i. 94 These federations temporarily put aside their differences in 1938 in order to defeat..measures which they regarded as union-crippling.
1991 Inside Sports Feb. 24/1 Sure, we bumped heads, we had our differences.
2012 Daily Mirror 24 Dec. 27 There is something appealing about the idea that nations could settle their differences in sport rather than war.
4.
a. The amount by which two quantities differ from one another; the remainder left after subtracting one number from another.goal difference, path difference, etc.: see the first element.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > number > arithmetic or algebraic operations > [noun] > division > result of > remainder > after subtraction
differencec1392
resolvend1667
arithmetical ratio1718
semi-difference1766
c1392 Equatorie of Planetis 36 (MED) The quantite of that difference þat I clepe the remenaunt.
a1400 ( G. Chaucer Treat. Astrolabe (St. John's Cambr. E. 2) (1872) ii. §43. 53 Þe diffrense [emended in ed. to differense] be-twen 1 and 2..is 1.
c1450 Art Nombryng in R. Steele Earliest Arithm. in Eng. (1922) 35 Therfor, yf þow wilt adde nombre to nombre, write the nombre wherto the addicioun shalle be made in the omest ordre by his differences.
1559 W. Cuningham Cosmogr. Glasse 103 Subtract the lesser time, from oute of the greater, and the difference turn into degrees, and mi. of the Equinoctial.
1593 T. Fale Horologiographia f. 19 Which you shall finde least, subtract that from the greater, and that which remaineth keep, (for it shall be called the difference kept).
1680 J. Seller Pract. Navigation (new ed.) vii. 82 Ascensional Difference, is an Arch of the Equinoctial, being the Difference between the Right and Oblique Ascension.
1719 D. Defoe Life Robinson Crusoe 231 The Difference of that Price was by no Means worth saving.
1774 M. Mackenzie Treat. Maritim Surv. iii. 13 The greater the Difference of Latitude of the two Places is.
1821 J. Q. Adams in C. Davies Metr. Syst. (1871) iii. 115 The difference between them was but of about half an ounce.
1874 Sydney Morning Herald 15 Oct. 5/2 The difference between the numbers thus found is large enough to furnish a basis for a very sensitive alcoholometric method.
1907 P. A. Lambert Differential & Integral Calculus i. 6 A difference of +1 in the value of x causes a difference of − 5 in y.
1922 J. A. Crowther Pract. Physics xxii. 128 The rate of loss of heat is proportional to the difference in temperature between the hot body and its surroundings.
1964 J. F. W. Galyer & C. R. Shotbolt Metrol. for Engineers vii. 126 The involute function of an angle is the difference between the tangent of the angle and the angle in radians.
2010 N.Y. Times (National ed.) 22 June b2/4 They did not want lenders endlessly hounding borrowers for the difference between what they owed and what their former house was worth.
b. The amount by which the value of a financial asset, such as a stock or bond, has increased or decreased over a given period of time. Frequently in to pay the difference.
ΘΚΠ
society > trade and finance > stocks and shares > [noun] > prices of stocks and shares > change or difference in price
difference1718
turn1796
touch1933
1718 S. Centlivre Bold Stroke for Wife iv. 35 Hark ye, Gabriel, you'll pay the Difference of that Stock we transacted for t'other Day.
1769 St. James's Chron. 1 June 3/2 Many of those who have Honour enough to pay the Difference, are already greatly hurt in their Fortune.
1814 Stock-Exchange laid Open 11 Every man must either take, deliver, or pay his difference.
1887 Daily News 12 Oct. 2/2 The differences to be met and liquidated are enormous.
1921 W. L. George Ursula Trent iii. viii. 276 You sell the shares, make the difference if they've gone up, or pay the difference if they've gone down.
2000 Ottawa Citizen (Nexis) 26 Nov. d1 Traders in a short position profit if the price drops, but pay the difference if the shares go up.
c. Mathematics. A finite difference (finite difference at finite adj. 3); (in early use) esp. the difference between two adjacent terms in a sequence of numbers.backward difference, central difference, forward difference, etc.: see the first element.Delta, Δ, is frequently used to denote the operation of taking a finite difference.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > number > mathematical number or quantity > [noun] > relationship between quantities > difference or discrepancy
odds1525
apotome1571
difference1745
absolute error1775
residual1854
error of closure1981
1745 J. Stewart Sir Isaac Newton's Two Treat. Quadrature of Curves 274 By considering these several Orders of Differences, it will appear that there are infinite Orders of them in every Case.
1837 Penny Cycl. VIII. 487 It is a very wide branch of pure mathematics which must be considered under this term, namely, the method or calculus of differences.
1860 G. Boole Treat. Calculus Finite Differences ii. 12 From these fundamental relations spring many general theorems expressing derived relations between the differences of the higher orders, the successive values, and the differential coefficients of functions.
1939 Ann. Math. Statistics 10 139 The differences of order ( k + 1 ) are higher than zero.
1977 V. G. Jenson & G. V. Jeffreys Math. methods Chem. Engin. (ed. 2) ix. 308 From this series of values of the dependent variable y, a series of differences can be constructed.
2009 D. Suisky Euler Physicist v. 214 The same procedure can be applied to differences of any order.
5. † a. A distinguishing characteristic, feature, or quality. Obsolete.† b. A division, class, or kind; a genus. Obsolete.
ΘΚΠ
society > communication > indication > that which identifies or distinguishes > [noun]
tokenc1000
distinctionc1374
differencea1398
signeta1425
knowledge?c1475
smell?a1505
markc1522
badge1529
note1583
impress1590
monument1590
type1595
stamp1600
pressure1604
mintage1612
criterion1613
impressa1628
differencer1633
lineament1638
mole1644
discrimination1646
tessera1647
diagnostic1651
monumental1657
discretive1660
signate1662
footmark1666
trait1752
memorandum1766
fingerprint1792
insignia1796
identifier1807
designative1824
cachet1840
differentiator1854
tanga1867
trademark1869
signature1873
totem1875
differential1883
earmarkings1888
paw print1894
discriminator1943
ident1952
a1398 J. Trevisa tr. Bartholomaeus Anglicus De Proprietatibus Rerum (BL Add. 27944) (1975) I. ii. vi. 67 Þat we may knowe þe office, conueniens, & differens [L. differentias] of al þe ordres.
1481 W. Caxton tr. Myrrour of Worlde ii. xiii. sig. g2v Pictogoras..by his grete entendement fonde the poyntes and the difference of musyque.
a1522 G. Douglas tr. Virgil Æneid (1959) x. vii. 81 Markyt ȝou swa with sic rud differens, That by hys keill ȝe may be knaw fra thens.
1631 J. Weever Anc. Funerall Monuments 149 The foure Deacons, for a difference from the Priests, carried a round wreath of white cloth.
1761 tr. C. Batteux Course Belles Lettres I. i. v. 26 By this means, we shall have the particular difference of arts, whose common object is the imitation of nature.
1842 Ld. Tennyson Two Voices in Poems (new ed.) II. 119 Will one beam be less intense, When thy peculiar difference Is cancell'd in the world of sense?
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > kind or sort > [noun] > a kind, sort, or class
kinc950
kindOE
distinction?c1225
rowc1300
spece1303
spice1303
fashionc1325
espicec1386
differencea1398
statec1450
sort?1523
notion1531
species1561
vein1568
brood1581
rank1585
order1588
race1590
breed1598
strain1612
batch1616
tap1623
siege1630
subdivision1646
notionality1651
category1660
denomination1664
footmark1666
genus1666
world1685
sortment1718
tribe1731
assortment1767
description1776
style1794
grouping1799
classification1803
subcategory1842
type1854
basket1916
a1398 J. Trevisa tr. Bartholomaeus Anglicus De Proprietatibus Rerum (BL Add. 27944) (1975) II. xix. lxvi. 1329 Among þe forsaide differences [of milk] gootes melk holdeþ þe mene.
1483 W. Caxton tr. J. de Voragine Golden Legende f. cccxxxxviv/1 It is to be noted, that ther be four differences of the sayntes [Fr. quatre differences des saintz; L. quadruplex est differentia sanctorum], that we honoure by the cours of the yere.
?1541 R. Copland Galen's Fourth Bk. Terapeutyke sig. Aiv, in Guy de Chauliac's Questyonary Cyrurgyens The flowyng of humours is dyuyded in two dyfferences.
1573 R. Lever Arte of Reason i. 7 Agayne, the differences of a wight are flyable, goable, swimmable, and creepable: For one wight differeth from an other by these meanes.
1610 P. Holland tr. W. Camden Brit. i. 34 There bee of times three differences: the first from the creation of man unto the Flood or Deluge..the second from the floud to the first Olympias.
a1682 Sir T. Browne Certain Misc. Tracts (1684) 36 The Sycamore..is properly but one kind or difference of Acer.
c. Heraldry. An alteration or addition to a coat of arms, used to distinguish a junior member or branch of a family from the chief line.
ΘΚΠ
society > communication > indication > insignia > heraldic devices collective > charge: device on shield > [noun] > alteration or addition
difference1425
differing1592
brisure1623
mark1631
diminution1787
1425 Rolls of Parl.: Henry VI (Electronic ed.) Parl. Apr. 1425 §12. m. 2 Not withstondyng þat þei were comen of þe yonger broþer, and þat hir difference þat þer bere in armes is furyer þanne my lordes mareschall.
1489 W. Caxton tr. C. de Pisan Bk. Fayttes of Armes iv. xv. sig. Sij The hed of the lord ship..bereth the playne armes of the same with out difference [Fr. sans difference], & thoo that are of his linage they putte theunto dyuerse dyfferences [Fr. differenses].
a1525 (c1448) R. Holland Bk. Howlat l. 600 in W. A. Craigie Asloan MS (1925) II. 113 He bure The said dowglas armes with a differens.
1564 W. Bullein Dialogue against Fever Pestilence f. 75 My name is Mendax, a yonger brother, linially descended of an auncient house... We geue three Whetstones in Gules, with no difference.
1604 W. Shakespeare Hamlet iv. v. 182 There's Rewe for you, & heere's some for me..you may weare your Rewe with a difference.
1610 J. Guillim Display of Heraldrie i. vi. 22 The sonne of an Emperour cannot beare a difference of higher esteeme, during the life of his father.
1724 A. Johnston Notitia Anglicana I. p. xli He means their Tincture and Differences; which latter are either certain Additaments..or else, certain Badges of Disgrace.
1766 M. A. Porny Elem. Heraldry iii. §4 Divers differences..whereby Bearers of the same Coat-of-Arms are distinguished each from others.
1836 Q. Rev. Apr. 2 The elder son carries off the honours of the ‘entire’ family escutcheon..;—the younger branches taking it only ‘with a difference’, or mark of inferiority.
1866 J. E. Cussans Gram. Heraldry 51 In the early days of heraldry, differences were effected by a variety of arbitrary methods, such as changing the tincture of the original coat.
1913 W. H. S. Hope Heraldry for Craftsmen & Designers ii. 103 One of the most difficult differences an artist has to contend with to-day is the silver scutcheon with a red hand.
2006 B. A. McAndrew Scotland's Hist. Heraldry xiv. 335 The younger sons of the Huntly earls occasionally bore the parental quartered coat with a suitable difference.
d. Philosophy and Logic. A characteristic or feature distinguishing a species or thing from all others of the same genus or class, as used for the purpose of defining that species or thing; = differentia n. Also more fully specific difference.Difference, along with genus, species, property, and accident, is one of the five predicables of Aristotelian logic (see predicable n. 1a).
ΘΚΠ
the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > [noun] > a characteristic
privilegec1225
distinctionc1374
propertyc1390
tachea1400
pointa1425
specialty?a1425
difference?c1425
conditionc1460
markc1522
touch1528
specialty1532
differentia1551
character?1569
formality1570
particularity1585
peculiar1589
accent1591
appropriation1600
characterism1603
peculiarity1606
resemblance1622
propera1626
speciality1625
specificationa1631
appropriament1633
characteristic1646
discrimination1646
diagnostic1651
characteristical1660
stroke1666
talent1670
physiognomya1680
oddity1713
distinctive1816
spécialité1836
trait1864
flavour1866
middle name1905
discriminant1920
discriminator1943
the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > logical classification > [noun] > a division, group, or class > member of > distinguishing feature(s) of member of
difference?c1425
differentia1551
gradual difference1651
?c1425 tr. Guy de Chauliac Grande Chirurgie (Paris) (1971) 73 How þe cause, þe effecte, þe kynde, þe spice and þe accedentes or the differens [L. differencia] schal mowe be saide.
1551 T. Wilson Rule of Reason sig. Kij When the propretye or difference is graunted, then the kynde straight foloweth.
1612 B. Jonson Alchemist iv. ii. sig. I2 You must render causes, Child, Your first, and second Intentions, know your Canons, And your Diuisions, Moodes, Degrees, and Differences . View more context for this quotation
1656 T. Hobbes Questions Liberty, Necessity & Chance 288 He requires in a definition, so exactly the Genus and the Difference.
a1732 J. Ayliffe New Pandect Rom. Civil Law (1734) i. xi. 60 A true and accurate Definition ought to consist of a Genus and a Difference, as aforesaid.
1788 T. Taylor Diss. Platonic Doctr. Ideas in tr. Proclus Philos. & Math. Comm. I. p. xliv The superior genera and differences..among which no equal predicate can be assigned reciprocable with man.
1843 J. S. Mill Syst. Logic I. i. vii. 174 The differentia, or specific difference, therefore, of man..is that outward form and the possession of reason.
1870 W. S. Jevons Elem. Lessons Logic xii. 99 These additional qualities form the difference.
1942 Philos. & Phenomenol. Res. 2 502 On this view the specific difference between fact and value vanishes.
2007 D. S. Oderberg Real Essentialism vii. 162 Rationality, which is the specific difference of the human species.
Phrases
P1. † a. in difference: (of a matter) that is the subject of disagreement, disputed. Also (of a person or institution): in disagreement, quarrelling. Obsolete.† b. at difference: (of a person, or two or more people) in disagreement, at variance; quarrelling.
ΚΠ
1523 Ld. Berners tr. J. Froissart Cronycles I. f. cc.xxii/1 Thus the christen realmes were in variacyon, and the churches in great dysference [read dyfference], bycause of the popes.
1525 Ld. Berners tr. J. Froissart Cronycles II. f. C.lxxxiiiiv/2 These assygnmentes were in debate and in dyfference between the erle and the barones.
1525 Ld. Berners tr. J. Froissart Cronycles II. cxxiii. f. cxxxviii/1 The duke of Bretayne was in great difference [Fr. en trop grant difference] with the realme of Fraunce.
1571 G. Fenton tr. Actes of Conf. in Relig. f. 26 That which they haue in difference with the Ministers.
1641 J. Jackson True Evangelical Temper i. 41 Who was the chiefe..remaines in some difference.
a1662 P. Heylyn Aerius Redivivus (1670) 403 There was scarce a point in difference between the Parties, wherein they had not very frequent and most fearful bickerings with one another.
1738 Preservative against Popery I. i. iv. 235 There is scarce any Doctrine or Practice in Difference between them and us.
1774 O. Goldsmith Grecian Hist. I. viii. 253 With full power to concert all matters in difference.
1806 Parl. Reg. I. 48 Gentlemen may live in difference on general and political subjects.
1867 Law Times 16 Nov. 148/1 All the matters in difference were referred to an arbitrator.
1902 W. Mack & H. P. Nash Cycl. Law & Procedure III. 681 The arbitrator has power to pass upon and determine everything..connected with the particular matters in difference or dispute.
1937 J. E. Davies Let. 26 Feb. in Mission to Moscow (1945) 66 He stated that it was unfortunate that the matters in difference had not progressed.
2013 S. C. Tucker Encycl. Mexican-Amer. War I. 792/2 A prompt settlement..of every matter in difference between the two countries.
ΘΚΠ
society > society and the community > dissent > be in dissension or at variance [verb (intransitive)]
discorda1382
vary?1428
disagree1534
dissent1538
differ1568
result1572
at difference1583
interferea1644
1583 W. Chauncie tr. P. Viret Worlde Possessed with Deuils iii. sig. I.vi As if ye would condemne Iesus Christ, as well as the deuills, whiche complained of hym, because thei are one against an other, & at difference.
a1616 W. Shakespeare Coriolanus (1623) v. iii. 202 Thou hast set thy mercy, & thy Honor At difference . View more context for this quotation
1654 R. Whitlock Ζωοτομία 391 He is doubtlesse his own best Friend, that is oft at differencewith himselfe, for his miscarriages.
1737 W. Whiston tr. Josephus Jewish War i. xi, in tr. Josephus Genuine Wks. 711 The great men were mightily at difference one with another.
1795 J. P. Kemble Venice Preserv'd ii. ii. 19 At difference; fie! Is this a time for quarrels?
1857 J. G. Holland Bay-path xxxii. 393 The centre of devoted sympathy and attachment, as well to those who had once been at difference with him, as to his long-time friends.
1873 Zoologist 8 3417 He and Mr. Dunning were at difference not upon facts but upon the importance attached to them.
1913 Homiletic Rev. Apr. 313/1 Jesus had already more than once been at difference with the Pharisees.
2010 D. P. Francis Partners in Passion x. 194 Two people who seemed ideally suited to each other can suddenly be at difference.
P2. to make a difference.
a. With between (also †of). To draw a distinction between two or more things; to treat two or more things differently to one another. Also: to constitute a difference between two or more things.
ΚΠ
1536 J. Gwynneth Confut. Fyrst Parte Frythes Boke xvii. sig. f.v Therfore all that, ryseth by the reason of thonely presence of the tone done in thy syghte, whyche maketh a dyfference bytwen them, in thyne estymacyon, and yet is there none bytwene them in dede.
1556 R. Record Castle of Knowl. 8 Many men do make a difference of them by twinkelinge, affirming that the Fixed starres doo twinkle, and not the Planetes.
1611 Bible (King James) Lev. xi. 47 To make a difference betweene the vncleane and the cleane. View more context for this quotation
1660 T. Stanley Hist. Philos. III. i. 55 They make a difference betwixt the Monad and One, conceaving the Monad to be that which exists in intellectuals; One, in numbers.
1716 J. Addison Free-Holder No. 31 Our Constitution..does not only make a Difference between the Guilty and the Innocent, but even among the Guilty between such as are more or less criminal.
1790 J. Bell Bell's New Pantheon I. 38 Some make a difference between the Athlotheta and the Agonotheta, urging, that the latter presided only at the Scenic games.
1883 F. Pollock Land Laws iii. 59 It was impossible that the law should make differences between the land of a peer and the land of any other freeholder.
1921 L. Robinson White-headed Boy i. 37 How foolish it was for a mother to be making differences between her children.
2006 C. Gohlke William Henry is Fine Name xvi. 168 Does God make a difference between colored and white once He's looking at our bare souls?
b.
(a) Usually in negative and interrogative constructions, and frequently with non-referential it as subject: to have a significant effect on a person or situation; to matter.
ΚΠ
1708 Brit. Apollo 29–31 Dec. It [sc. the wind] is sometimes Full East, namely, when the Declension of the Sun is too small to make a Difference.
1774 J. Andrews Hist. Revol. Denmark II. 264 The unlawfulness of the connection she has indulged, cannot be supposed to make any difference in the affection she feels for a progeny she blushes to own.
1811 National Intelligencer (Washington) 3 Aug. The mode of choice by the people can make no difference in the political relation between the people and the house of delegates.
1879 Irish Monthly 7 596 She will soon have to do the work of a woman. Another year or two will make a difference in her ideas.
1921 Young Woman's Jrnl. Aug. 465/2 If we want to go to Los Angeles, it does not make any difference whether we go over the Salt Lake Route, the Southern Pacific, or the Western Pacific.
1961 S. Chaplin Day of Sardine vi. 132 He was never any good to you. It makes no difference to me if you give him his marching orders.
1993 C. MacDougall Lights Below 106 What difference does it make, how I feel? What has that got to do with it?
(b) Of a person: to have a positive, beneficial effect on a person, thing, or situation; to change something for the better.
ΚΠ
1917 Bakersfield Californian 14 Sept. 12/5 What we want is to feel that we are going forward; that the efforts we make sum up to something in the long run. We want to make a difference.
1965 Altoona (Pa.) Mirror 2 Jan. 12/3 You might call youngsters coming out of our high schools today the ‘Fired-Up’ generation... They have already made a difference in political and social life.
1996 W. Mooney & D. Holt Storyteller's Guide 124 Perhaps the greatest pleasure in being a storyteller is the feeling that you are making a difference.
2012 V. Parker Inspiring Others (2013) 3 Find inspirational quotes from the kids featured in this book and other famous people who made a difference.
P3. with a difference: with a new, unusual, or striking feature or treatment.In quot. 1813 with allusion to Ophelia's speech in Shakespeare's Hamlet (see quot. 1604 at sense 5c).
ΚΠ
1813 Drakard's Paper 18 Dec. 390/2 Hayman is here a commentator, ‘with a difference’.
1844 Indiana State Sentinel (Indianapolis) 2 May 1/6 He now preaches Millerism with a difference.
1895 H. Spender Sign of Guillotine xix. 161 A captive with a difference—a captive for your own good.
1938 Cue 3 Dec. 41/2 You can order Crepes Bacchus... They're Crepes Suzette with a difference.
1975 Victoria (Brit. Columbia) Times 12 May 16 In Rome an enterprising countess has started a baby-sitting agency with a difference—the baby-sitters are grannies.
1997 M. J. Phillips-Matz Rosa Ponselle p. xxv This was a diva with a difference.
2013 Daily Tel. (Nexis) 10 July (Features section) 11 For a short break with a difference, Normandy is hard to beat.
P4. a distinction without a difference: see distinction n. 3b; method of difference: see method n. 3e; to split the difference: see split v. 5c; there is a difference between staring and stark mad: see staring adj. and adv. Phrases; to thread the difference: see thread v. 4d; a world of difference: see world n. 19a(a).
Compounds
difference engine n. now historical a mechanical calculating machine which, using only the operation of addition, is capable of producing tables of values for a variety of mathematical functions; cf. analytical engine n. at analytical adj. Compounds.The machine, which is widely regarded as a precursor to the modern computer, was proposed and designed by Charles Babbage in 1822 (see quot. 1822); a working version was built in 1853 by George and Edward Schuetz.
ΘΚΠ
society > computing and information technology > hardware > computer > [noun] > mechanical
calculating machine1832
mill1837
difference engine1843
1822 C. Babbage Let. to Sir Humphry Davy 6 For the purpose of demonstrating the practicability of these views, I have chosen the engine for differences, and have constructed one of them which will produce any tables whose second differences are constant.]
1843 London, Edinb., & Dublin Philos. Mag. 23 236 The Difference Engine might be constructed with more or less advantage, by employing various mechanical modes for the operation of addition.
1940 W. J. Eckert Punched Card Methods Sci. Computation v. 56 With slight modification one of these multipliers might become a remarkable ‘Difference Engine’.
2005 D. A. Grier When Computers were Human (2007) iv. 69 Gould..had discovered the difference engine while traveling in Europe and had been impressed with its potential.
difference equation n. [ultimately after French équation des differences (J. L. Lagrange 1770, in Mem. de l'Acad. Royale des Sci. & Belles-Lettres (Berlin) 24 112)] Mathematics a recurrence relation; esp. one in which the general member of the sequence is given in terms of the differences between successive terms.
ΚΠ
1853 Monthly Notices Royal Astron. Soc. 13 134 The author treats with the utmost rigour Schlüter's observations, and deduces the following result from the difference equations.
1927 E. L. Ince Ordinary Differential Equations ix. 206 Each boundary condition is equivalent to a linear difference equation.
2003 New Scientist 19 July 30/1 Thomas devised a difference equation that relates the mosquito population in any given week to the previous week's population.
difference limen n. [after German Unterschiedsschwelle (see difference threshold n.)] = difference threshold n.
ΚΠ
1893 Philos. Rev. 2 99 Positive and complementary after-images are explained as ‘exhaustion phenomena, which have not yet reached the value of the difference limen in the negative direction’.
1952 Amer. Jrnl. Psychol. 65 579 Changes in the absolute threshold may not be directly and equivalently reflected in the difference limen.
1997 S. A. Gelfand Essentials Audiol. xvi. 446/1 Binaural difference limens for both frequency and intensity are smaller (better) than the corresponding values for monaural hearing.
difference threshold n. [after German Unterschiedsschwelle ( G. T. Fechner Elemente der Psychophysik (1860) i. x. 239)] the degree to which two stimuli or sensations must differ in order for them to be perceived as being different; (also) the degree of ability to perceive differences between stimuli.
ΚΠ
1876 J. Ward in Mind 1 459 This ‘relativity’ between difference-threshold and stimulus [may] be due to something not in any sense psychical.
1902 W. James Varieties Relig. Experience vi. 135 When one is sensitive to small differences in any order of sensation, we say he has a low ‘difference-threshold’—his mind easily steps over it into the consciousness of the differences in question.
1956 Amer. Jrnl. Psychol. 69 673 The method may be adapted to the determination of difference thresholds.
2010 E. B. Goldstein Sensation & Perception (ed. 8) i. 15/1 The procedure for measuring the difference threshold for sensing weight is as follows.
difference tone n. [after German Differenzton (H. Helmholtz 1856, in Ann. der Physik u. Chem. 99 518)] Acoustics and Music a tone sometimes perceived during the simultaneous sounding of two other tones, its frequency being the difference between those of the tones being played; = differential tone n. at differential adj. and n. Compounds; cf. summation-tone at tone n. 2a(a).
ΚΠ
1867 London, Edinb., & Dublin Philos. Mag. 4th Ser. 34 126 In addition to these deeper combination-tones or ‘difference-tones’, there are also higher combination-tones, ‘summation-tones’.
1925 Times Lit. Suppl. 15 Oct. 668/3 The objective existence of ‘difference-tones’..is not free from doubt.
2012 S. Ritchie Before Chinrest xiii. 87 When played in tune, this [sc. a minor third] produces a difference tone a major third below the lower note.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, March 2016; most recently modified version published online June 2022).
† differencen.2
Astronomy. Obsolete.
In the Ptolemaic system of astronomy: the large circular orbit made by the centre of the epicycle (epicycle n. 1) in which a planet was thought to move; = deferent n. 2.
ΘΚΠ
the world > the universe > planet > planetary movement > [noun] > orbit > older astronomy > orbit of centre
differencea1398
deferent1483
a1398 J. Trevisa tr. Bartholomaeus Anglicus De Proprietatibus Rerum (BL Add. 27944) (1975) I. viii. xi. 477 Þe cercle þat hatte differens [L. deferens] is þe cercle of a planete... And hatte differens..for it be[reþ þe] cercle epiciclus.
a1500 ( Pilgrimage of Soul (Egerton) (1953) v. ii. f. 88 (MED) I saughe vii ne othir speres..and with inne eche..þere was set a circule embylyving somwhat and thwartenyng the thiknesse of the speer, which circle is called the difference..This epicicle was..sette upon this difference, so þat it..moevid in this circle be ordre..a-bought this forsaid difference. In eche of this epicicles was ficched one of the seven namecouth planetes..saaf only þat the sonne was withowt þe epicicle, fiched evene in the circumference of his difference.
1644 R. Polter Path-way to Perfect Sayling 26 The Sunne hath three Orbes or particular Spheres, as followeth. First an Excentricke which is called the difference of the body of the Sun. second is called the difference of ye Apogeum of the excentrick [etc.]
1661 T. Salusbury tr. P. A. Foscarini Epist. in Math. Coll. & Transl. I. i. 476 The Phænomena of Celestial Bodys..are found to be involved with many difficulties, and referred to many devices; as namely, of Orbes of sundry Forms and Figures, Epicicles, Equations, Differences [L. deferentibus], Excentricks, and innumerable such like fancies and Chymæra's.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, March 2016; most recently modified version published online September 2021).
† differencen.3
Scottish. Obsolete. rare.
Delay, postponement. Cf. defer v.1 2.
ΘΚΠ
the world > time > a suitable time or opportunity > untimeliness > delay or postponement > [noun]
longingeOE
bideOE
abodec1225
bodea1300
demura1300
dwella1300
litinga1300
delayc1300
delayingc1300
demurrancec1300
but honec1325
without ensoignec1325
abidec1330
dretchingc1330
dwellingc1330
essoinc1330
tarrying1340
litea1350
delaymenta1393
respitea1393
oversettinga1398
delayancea1400
delitea1400
lingeringa1400
stounding?a1400
sunyiea1400
targea1400
train?a1400
deferring14..
dilation14..
dayc1405
prolongingc1425
spacec1430
adjourningc1436
retardationc1437
prolongation?a1439
training1440
adjournment1445
sleuthingc1450
tarry1451
tarriance1460
prorogation1476
oversetc1485
tarriage1488
debaid1489
supersedement1492
superseding1494
off-putting1496
postponing1496
tract1503
dilating1509
sparinga1513
hafting1519
sufferance1523
tracking1524
sticking1525
stay1530
pause1532
protraction1535
tracting1535
protract of time1536
protracting1540
postposition1546
staying1546
procrastination1548
difference1559
surceasing1560
tardation1568
detract1570
detracting1572
tarryment1575
rejourning1578
detraction1579
longness1579
rejournment1579
holding1581
reprieving1583
cunctation1585
retarding1585
retardance1586
temporizing1587
by and by1591
suspensea1592
procrastinatinga1594
tardance1595
linger1597
forslacking1600
morrowing1602
recess1603
deferment1612
attendance1614
put-off1623
adjournal1627
fristing1637
hanging-up1638
retardment1640
dilatoriness1642
suspension1645
stickagea1647
tardidation1647
transtemporation1651
demurragea1656
prolatation1656
prolation1656
moration1658
perendination1658
offput1730
retardure1751
postponement1757
retard1781
traverse1799
tarrowing1832
mañana1845
temporization1888
procrastinativeness1893
deferral1895
traa dy liooar1897
stalling1927
heel-tapping1949
off-put1970
1559 Abbot of Crosraguell Let. Willock in R. Keith Hist. Affairs Church & State Scotl. (1734) App. 198 The hail warld may se that it is bot difference that ye desyre, and not to haif the mater at ane perfyte tryall.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, March 2016; most recently modified version published online March 2019).
differencev.
/ˈdɪf(ə)rəns/, /ˈdɪf(ə)rn̩s/, U.S. /ˈdɪf(ə)rəns/ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > be different [verb (intransitive)]
diversec1384
discorda1387
swervea1400
differ?c1400
varyc1400
differencec1425
square?c1450
abhor1531
repugna1538
dissent1539
recede1570
discrepate1590
ablude1610
decline1615
to stand offa1616
particularize1637
distinguish1649
deviate1692
to stand apart1709
veer1796
to be a long way from1917
c1425 Edward, Duke of York Master of Game (Vesp. B.xii) (1904) 17 That othere heed is called counterfeet, It is whan she differenseth [v.r. differenceth] and is oþer waies turned be hynde or awayward in other maner þan other comon deere bene custumed to bere.
1483 W. Caxton tr. J. de Voragine Golden Legende f. cccxlviiv/2 They difference as moche, as is bitwene not to synne, and to do well.
1630 T. Taylor Progresse of Saints 243 To enforce this watch, know, it differenceth from an hypocrite: First, an hypocrite can watch over words and actions in respect of man, but a godly man watcheth over his thoughts.
2. † a. transitive. To change or alter; to make (something) different from what it was, or from what it is in differing circumstances. Obsolete. rare.
ΘΚΠ
the world > time > change > change [verb (transitive)]
wharvec897
wendOE
i-wendeOE
awendOE
aturn?c1225
biwrixle?c1225
changec1225
turnc1225
shifta1325
vary1340
inchangea1382
strange1390
altera1398
alterate?a1425
permute?a1425
difference1481
renewc1515
alienate1534
wrixlec1540
to chop and change1557
variate1566
palter1587
permutate1598
immute1613
unmake1616
unsame1632
chop1644
veer1647
variegatea1690
refract1700
mutabilatea1704
commute1825
stranger1863
switch1919
1481 W. Caxton tr. Myrrour of Worlde ii. xxi. sig. h3 In the londe of Samarye is a wel that chaungeth and differenceth his colour four tymes in the yere.
1593 T. Nashe Christs Teares f. 72v God shall reply..Thou hast so differenced and diuorced thy selfe from thy creation, that I know thee not for my creature.
1676 J. Evelyn Philos. Disc. Earth 49 How far Principles might be..differenced by alteration and condensation.
b. transitive. Heraldry. To make an alteration or addition to (a coat of arms) for the purpose of distinguishing individual members or branches of the same family; to distinguish (members or branches of the same family) by altering a coat of arms.
ΘΚΠ
society > communication > indication > insignia > heraldic devices collective > charge: device on shield > place charge on [verb (transitive)] > distinguish branch from main line
difference1489
differ1586
1489 W. Caxton tr. C. de Pisan Bk. Fayttes of Armes iv. xvii. sig. Sv Of thees seuen colours are dyfferenced [Fr. differencees] all manere of armes penoncelles and baners by dyuerse deuyses.
1572 J. Bossewell Wks. Armorie f. 106v The sixt as the first, the which, and the seconde are differenced vpon them bothe with a cressant, which signifieth that he is of a second brother to bothe those houses.
1633 T. Nash Quaternio 38 (margin) Younger brothers are differenced by Armorists in their armes.
1754 A. Boyer Great Theater Honour (ed. 2) i. xxv. 377 The great Scutcheon rebated, or differenced, with a Label of three Pendants, and a Bordure of the same, charged with eight Bezants.
1866 J. E. Cussans Gram. Heraldry 53 The members of the Royal family difference their arms with a silver label of three points, charged with some distinguishing mark specially assigned to them by the sovereign.
1907 G. W. Eves Heraldry as Art vi. 132 Another difficult kind of crest is that which is differenced with a row of objects in front.
1994 Washington Post 23 July a19/2 If Breyer chose to use these arms, they should be ‘differenced’ to show that she is a woman.
3. transitive. Esp. of a quality or feature: to cause (something) to be differentiated or distinguished (from something else); to cause or constitute a difference between. Now rare.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > differ from [verb (transitive)] > distinguish or differentiate
to-skillc1175
disguise1340
asunderc1425
differc1450
difference1490
sort1553
distinguish1576
particularize?1593
diversify1594
subdistinguish1610
discriminate1615
severalize1645
specify1645
disresemble1651
estrange1727
discrepate1828
differentialize1833
differentiate1838
dissimilate1876
redifferentiate1970
1490 W. Caxton tr. Boke yf Eneydos vi. sig. Bviij The Fenyces were the fyrst Inuentours of carecteris dyfferencyng [Fr. differens] that one fro that other. of whiche were fourmed lettres for to write & redyng in remembarunce perpetual.
1590 W. Clever Flower of Phisicke 96 Nature hath differenced the chollerike man from the fiegmatike.
1628 O. Felltham Resolves: 2nd Cent. xxv. sig. Nv This differenceth a wise man and a foole.
a1704 J. Locke Conduct of Understanding §30 in Posthumous Wks. (1706) 91 Every individual has something that differences it from another.
1763 J. Butler Addr. to Cocoa-tree from Whig (ed. 5) 44 We shall then be differenced from wicked men, who perturbate his administration.
1785 London Chron. 29 Sept. 316/2 Each [hat] had something particular, which, to an attentive observer, differenced it from its neighbour.
1812 P. B. Shelley Addr. Irish People 15 Political institution has even the greatest influence on the human character, and is that alone which differences the Turk from the Irishman.
1871 E. B. Tylor Primitive Culture II. 300 That theologic change which differences the Jew of the Rabbinical books from the Jew of the Pentateuch.
1905 S. R. Calthrop God & his World 195 It [sc. spirit] is differenced from matter by its capacity to direct its motion from within.
2001 Age (Melbourne) (Nexis) 31 Mar. 20 Most clubs are only differenced by one or two players.
a. transitive. Of a person: to mark or perceive that (something) differs from something else; to distinguish, to differentiate. Obsolete.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > relationship > difference > differ from [verb (transitive)] > mark difference between
difference1596
modificate1625
modify1664
differentiate1857
demark1883
the mind > attention and judgement > judgement or decision > discernment, discrimination > discern [verb (transitive)] > distinguish, separate
winnowc825
tryc1330
distinguea1340
divide1377
departc1380
devisea1400
sever1426
perceivea1500
deem1530
discern1533
searcec1535
sort1553
to pick outa1555
decern1559
difference1596
distinguisha1616
severalize1645
separate1651
secern1656
run1795
define1807
sequester1841
differentiate1857
divaricate1868
1596 W. Lambarde Perambulation of Kent (rev. ed.) 145 One calleth it Dorobrina, differencing it from Canterbury (which he termeth Dorobornia).
?1611 G. Chapman tr. Homer Iliads v. 130 From thy knowing mind..I have remov'd those erring mists..That thou may'st difference Gods from men.
1656 J. Chaloner Short Treat. Isle of Man iv. 10 in D. King Vale-royall Eng. The Judicious will be hereby the better able to difference Roman Antiquities from Saxon.
1755 S. Walker Christian viii. 196 He is known and differenced from never-so-many, who presume, without Title, to be of equal Birth with him.
1855 R. C. Trench Eng. Past & Present v. 173 It is a real disadvantage..that there should be words in spoken language of entirely different origin and meaning, which yet are not in sound to be differenced from one another.
1910 Jrnl. Trans. Proc. Dumfriesshire & Galloway Nat. Hist. & Antiquarian Soc. 21 103 The discovery of the meaning involves the test of tentative interpretations before it can be differenced from others which are possible.
b. intransitive. To recognize the difference between; to distinguish between. Obsolete. rare.
ΘΚΠ
the mind > attention and judgement > judgement or decision > discernment, discrimination > discern, discriminate [verb (intransitive)]
winnowc1175
deem1340
knowa1398
discerna1413
perceive1495
descry1582
distinguish1612
discriminate1645
difference1646
differentiate1855
discrepate1894
1646 S. Bolton Arraignment of Errour 166 You cannot difference between false and true.
1743 J. Hancock Expostulatory & Pacifick Let. 11 By differencing between the Good and Evil, he, together with many others, have approved themselves true Friends to the Work of God.
5. Mathematics.† a. transitive. To calculate the difference of (two quantities). Obsolete. rare.† c. transitive. To obtain the differential or derivative of (a function, variable quantity); to differentiate. Obsolete.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > number > arithmetic or algebraic operations > perform arithmetic or algebraic operations [verb (transitive)] > subtract
to do awayOE
drawc1392
to take out of ——a1398
to take offa1400
withdrawc1400
subtray?c1425
ydraw?c1425
surtretec1440
to take away?1537
rebate1543
subtract1543
subduct?1556
substra?1558
pull?a1560
subduce?a1560
substract1559
to pull back?1574
difference1658
take1798
minus1963
1658 J. Collins Sector on Quadrant 185 In differencing or summing the two containing sides alter it not.
b. transitive. To determine the sequence of differences between (successive terms of a sequence).In later use frequently with reference to methods designed to analyse or compensate for systemic errors in collected data.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > number > arithmetic or algebraic operations > perform arithmetic or algebraic operations [verb (transitive)]
difference1670
1670 I. Newton Let. 27 Sept. in Corr. (1959) I. 43 I thank you for your intimation about the limits of æquations, & differencing their homogeneall termes.
1863 Jrnl. Inst. Actuaries 11 63 By differencing this column of first differences, a column of second differences is obtained.
1889 Jrnl. Inst. Actuaries 27 372 The values of Δ..were obtained by differencing the values of the temporary annuities in the column for age 20.
1912 H. P. Dunham Business Insurance I. iii. xviii. 313 The second column..gives the number who die at each age, and can be got by differencing the numbers in the living column.
1988 A. L. Whipple et al. in A. K. Babcock Earth's Rotation & Ref. Frames i. 56 Differencing the measured positions of the minor planets eliminates errors which may be present in the positions of the reference stars.
2000 Policy Res. Working Paper 2309 (World Bank) 8 Differencing the saving regression introduces, by construction, a correlation between the differenced lagged saving rate and differenced error term.
ΘΚΠ
the world > relative properties > number > calculus > perform calculus [verb (transitive)] > differentiate
difference1728
differentiate1814
1728 E. Chambers Cycl. at Differential A Method of differencing Quantities; that is, of finding a differential, or infinitely small Quantity, which, taken an infinite Number of Times, is equal to a given Quantity.
1788 G. S. Howard New Royal Encycl. I. 424 To difference quantities that mutually divide each other.
1829 London Encycl. V. 24/1 The rules for differencing quantities are the very same as those for finding their fluxions.
1842 H. H. Harte tr. S. D. Poisson Treat. Mech. II. iv. ix. 571 The values of u, v, w should be differenced with respect to ε.
Derivatives
ˈdifferenced adj.
ΚΠ
1600 C. Edmondes Obseruations Fiue Bks. Caesars Comm. iv. ii. 134 Concerning matter of warre, as it consisteth of differenced partes; so hath choler diuers effectes.
1867 C. Boutell Eng. Heraldry 207 The examples of Differenced Shield which follow I have selected from the Roll of Edward II.
2000 Policy Res. Working Paper 2309 (World Bank) 8 Differencing the saving regression introduces, by construction, a correlation between the differenced lagged saving rate and differenced error term.
ΘΚΠ
society > communication > indication > that which identifies or distinguishes > [noun]
tokenc1000
distinctionc1374
differencea1398
signeta1425
knowledge?c1475
smell?a1505
markc1522
badge1529
note1583
impress1590
monument1590
type1595
stamp1600
pressure1604
mintage1612
criterion1613
impressa1628
differencer1633
lineament1638
mole1644
discrimination1646
tessera1647
diagnostic1651
monumental1657
discretive1660
signate1662
footmark1666
trait1752
memorandum1766
fingerprint1792
insignia1796
identifier1807
designative1824
cachet1840
differentiator1854
tanga1867
trademark1869
signature1873
totem1875
differential1883
earmarkings1888
paw print1894
discriminator1943
ident1952
1633 D. Rogers Treat. Two Sacraments Gospell i. 81 Circumcision..to be the Differencer of all other Nations from the Jewes.
1645 J. Lightfoot Comm. Acts x. 229 Of these two, singularity of Dyet, or Prohibition of certaine meates, was the more proper differencer, and the more strict distinctive.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, March 2016; most recently modified version published online March 2022).
<
n.11340
n.2a1398n.31559
v.c1425