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dif·fer·en·ti·ate

(dĭf′ə-rĕnshē-āt′)

v. dif·fer·en·ti·at·ed, dif·fer·en·ti·at·ing, dif·fer·en·ti·ates

v.tr.

1. To constitute the distinction between: subspecies that are differentiated by the markings on their wings.

2. To perceive or show the difference in or between; discriminate.

3. To make different by alteration or modification.

4. Mathematics To calculate the derivative or differential of (a function).

v.intr.

1. To become distinct or specialized; acquire a different character.

2. To make distinctions; discriminate.

3. Biology To undergo differentiation.

Indo-European & Semitic Roots Appendices

Thousands of entries in the dictionary include etymologies that trace their origins back to reconstructed proto-languages. You can obtain more information about these forms in our online appendices:

Indo-European Roots

Semitic Roots

The Indo-European appendix covers nearly half of the Indo-European roots that have left their mark on English words. A more complete treatment of Indo-European roots and the English words derived from them is available in our Dictionary of Indo-European Roots.

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