distinct

 
Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɪŋ(k)t/

adjective

  • 1recognizably different in nature from something else of a similar type: the patterns of spoken language are distinct from those of writing there are two distinct types of sickle cell disease
  • physically separate: the gallery is divided into five distinct spaces
  • 2readily distinguishable by the senses: a distinct smell of nicotine
  • [attributive] (used for emphasis) so clearly apparent to the mind as to be unmistakable; definite: he got the distinct impression that Melissa wasn’t best pleased

Derivatives

distinctness

noun

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'differentiated'): from Latin distinctus 'separated, distinguished', from the verb distinguere (see distinguish)