English Lexicon

Differential

/ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl/
nounadjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #2500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A difference between amounts, values, or rates.

    "There is a wage differential between men and women."
  2. 2

    An epicyclic gear train that enables the driving wheels to turn at different speeds when negotiating a bend.

    "The mechanic inspected the car's differential for wear and tear."

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Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Early 17th century: from medieval Latin differentialis, from Latin differentia 'difference'.

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