Differential

[dɪfəˈɹənʃəɫ] · adjective

Meaning

Of or pertaining to a difference..

Definitions by Sense

1. Of or pertaining to a difference.
2. Dependent on, or making a difference; distinctive.
3. Having differences in speed or direction of motion.
4. (mathematics) Of or pertaining to differentiation or the differential calculus.
5. The differential gear in an automobile, etc.
6. A qualitative or quantitative difference between similar or comparable things.
7. One of two coils of conducting wire so related to one another or to a magnet or armature common to both, that one coil produces polar action contrary to that of the other.
8. A form of conductor used for dividing and distributing the current to a series of electric lamps so as to maintain equal action in all.

Example Sentences

differential characteristics

I saved disk space by taking differential backups, which only stored the data that had changed.

[Caspar Schetz, Baron of Grobbendonck] was regularly in the pay of Sir Thomas Gresham, to whom he produced differential favours, and by whose government he was rewarded by gold chains and presents of hard cash, bestowed as secretly as the equivalent was conveyed adroitly.

If f(x)#61;x², the differential of f is the function #92;operatorname#123;d#125;#92;#33;f(x,#92;Deltax)#61;f'(x)#92;Deltax#61;2x#92;Deltax.

Synonyms for differential

Antonyms for differential

Related Words

Word Forms

• more differential
• most differential
• differentials

Usage Notes

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