Differential

Quick meaning: Differential is an adjective meaning Of or pertaining to a difference.

Meaning

Of or pertaining to a difference.

More Meanings

1. Dependent on, or making a difference; distinctive.
2. Having differences in speed or direction of motion.
3. (mathematics) Of or pertaining to differentiation or the differential calculus.
4. The differential gear in an automobile, etc.
5. A qualitative or quantitative difference between similar or comparable things.
6. 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.
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.

Example Sentences

differential characteristics

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

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.

[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.

Word Forms

• differentials

Synonyms for differential

Depending on context, synonyms include derivative.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include derivative, differentiation, difference, distinction, different, distinctive.

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