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v. dis·tin·guished, dis·tin·guish·ing, dis·tin·guish·es v.tr. 1. a. To perceive as being different or distinct: Can you distinguish a pattern in this behavior? b. To perceive distinctly; discern: The lookout distinguished the masts of ships on the horizon. 2. a. To demonstrate or describe as being different or distinct: a scientist who distinguished four species of the plant. b. To be an identifying characteristic of; make noticeable or different: These spices distinguish this style of Asian cooking. 3. To cause (oneself) to be respected or eminent: They have distinguished themselves as dedicated social workers. v.intr. To perceive or indicate differences; discriminate: Can the child distinguish between right and wrong? [Alteration of obsolete distingue, from Middle English distinguen, from Old French distinguer, from Latin distinguere, to separate; see steig- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] dis·tinguish·a·ble adj. dis·tinguish·a·bly adv. |
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