Search Dictionary
Definition of distinction

distinction

/dɪˈstɪŋk.ʃən/
dis · tinc · tion

Adverb:distinctly
•
Plural:distinctions
•
Adjective:distinct
JUMP TO:

distinction Lexical Profile

distinction Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A clear difference or contrast between similar things or people, or the act of perceiving and marking such a difference.

Example

"The philosopher drew a sharp distinction between moral obligation and legal duty."


2

Excellence or eminence that sets someone or something apart from others; high standing or renown.

Example

"She served with great distinction throughout her long diplomatic career."


3

A special honor, award, or highest grade conferred in recognition of outstanding achievement, especially in academic examinations.

Example

"He graduated with a distinction in mathematics after scoring at the top of his class."


4

A specific characteristic, quality, or feature that makes someone or something unique or notable.

Example

"The small coastal town holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the region."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for distinction
Antonyms
View all antonyms for distinction

• Rhymes for distinction

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French 'distinction', from Latin 'distinctio' ('a separating, difference'), derived from the verb 'distinguere' ('to separate between, mark off'), literally 'to separate by pricking'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Distinction. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/distinction
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.