distinct

adjective

dis·​tinct di-ˈstiŋ(k)t How to pronounce distinct (audio)
Synonyms of distinct
1
: distinguishable to the eye or mind as being discrete (see discrete sense 1) or not the same : separate
a distinct cultural group
teaching as distinct from research
2
: presenting a clear unmistakable impression
a neat distinct handwriting
3
archaic : notably decorated
4
a
: notable
a distinct contribution to scholarship
b
: readily and unmistakably apprehended (see apprehend sense 2a)
a distinct possibility of snow
a distinct British accent
the distinct odor of sulfur
distinctly
di-ˈstiŋ(k)-tlē How to pronounce distinct (audio)
-ˈstiŋ-klē
adverb
distinctness
di-ˈstiŋ(k)t-nəs How to pronounce distinct (audio)
-ˈstiŋk-nəs
noun

Synonyms of distinct

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distinct, separate, discrete mean not being each and every one the same.

distinct indicates that something is distinguished by the mind or eye as being apart or different from others.

two distinct versions

separate often stresses lack of connection or a difference in identity between two things.

separate rooms

discrete strongly emphasizes individuality and lack of connection.

broke the job down into discrete stages

synonyms see in addition evident

Examples of distinct in a Sentence

There are three distinct categories. Each herb has its own distinct flavor. The phrase has three distinct meanings. There was the distinct smell of something burning. The outline became less and less distinct as the light faded. We had the distinct impression that they were lying.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The couple brought their friends and family from the United States and India to the Italian island in May 2026 for a multi-day celebration that blended the couple’s heritage with Sicily’s distinct identity. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 1 Sep. 2026 What surprised me most was how distinct the breakfast sandwich tasted, despite using ingredients like American cheese, ketchup, and white bread. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026 There are more than 200 distinct pieces that capture Mexico’s expansive and influential muralist tradition of the modern era. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026 Reading The Waves Of AI Creativity Navigating this rapidly shifting landscape requires an understanding of how digital expression has evolved over distinct waves. — Coco Mao, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for distinct

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin distinctus, from past participle of distinguere — see distinguish

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of distinct was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing distinct

Rhymes for distinct

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Browse Nearby Words

distills
distinct
distinctio
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Cite this Entry

“Distinct.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distinct. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

distinct

adjective
dis·​tinct dis-ˈtiŋ(k)t How to pronounce distinct (audio)
1
: real and different from each other
five distinct varieties
pears as distinct from apples
2
: clearly seen, heard, or understood : plain, unmistakable
speaks with a distinct accent
a distinct possibility
3
: notable
made a distinct contribution to science
distinctly adverb
distinctness noun
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