differential

[dɪfəˈɹənʃəɫ]

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: differentials

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of or pertaining to a difference.

Adjective

Examples

differential characteristics

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Dependent on, or making a difference; distinctive.

Adjective

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

The differential gear in an automobile, etc.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A qualitative or quantitative difference between similar or comparable things.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “differential” mean?

Of or pertaining to a difference.

Is “differential” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.