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Webster 1913 Edition

Distinction

Dis-tinc′tion

,
Noun.
[L.
distinctio
: cf. F.
distinction
.]
1.
A marking off by visible signs; separation into parts; division.
[Obs.]
The
distinction
of tragedy into acts was not known.
Dryden.
2.
The act of distinguishing or denoting the differences between objects, or the qualities by which one is known from others; exercise of discernment; discrimination.
To take away therefore that error, which confusion breedeth,
distinction
is requisite.
Hooker.
3.
That which distinguishes one thing from another; distinguishing quality; sharply defined difference;
as, the
distinction
between real and apparent good
.
The
distinction
betwixt the animal kingdom and the inferior parts of matter.
Locke.
4.
Estimation of difference; regard to differences or distinguishing circumstance.
Maids, women, wives, without
distinction
, fall.
Dryden.
5.
Conspicuous station; eminence; superiority; honorable estimation;
as, a man of
distinction
.
Syn. – Difference; variation, variety; contrast; diversity; contrariety; disagreement; discrimination; preference; superiority; rank; note; eminence.

Webster 1828 Edition

Distinction

DISTINCTION

,
Noun.
[L.]
1.
The act of separating or distinguishing.
2.
A note or mark of difference. [Seldom used.]
3.
Difference made; a separation or disagreement in kind or qualities, by which one thing is known from another. We observe a distinction between matter and spirit; a distinction between matter and spirit; a distinction between the animal and vegetable kingdoms; a distinction between good and evil, right and wrong; between sound reasoning and sophistry.
4.
Difference regarded; separation; preference; as in the phrase, without distinction, which denotes promiscuously, all together, alike.
Maids, women, wives, without distinction fall.
5.
Separation; division; as the distinction of tragedy into acts.
[In this sense, division would be preferable.]
6.
Notation of difference; discrimination; as a distinction between real and apparent good.
In classing the qualities of actions, it is necessary to make accurate distinctions.
7.
Eminence; superiority; elevation of rank in society, or elevation of character; honorable estimation. Men who hold a high rank by birth or office, and men who are eminent fro their talents, services or worth, are called men of distinction, as being raised above others by positive institutions or by reputation. So we say, a man of note.
8.
That which confers eminence or superiority; office, rank or public favor.
9.
Discernment; judgment.

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