English · Word Candidate

discriminate

/dɪˈskɹɪm.ɪ.neɪt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: discriminates · discriminating · discriminated

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To make distinctions.

Verb

Since he was color blind he was unable to discriminate between the blue and green bottles.

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).

Meaning · English

To treat or affect differently, depending on differences in traits.

Verb

Low self-esteem can affect both rich and poor people: it doesn't discriminate.

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).

Meaning · English

Having its differences marked; distinguished by certain tokens.

Adjective

Nevertheless it is certain, that oisters, and cockles, and mussels, which move not, have no discriminate sex

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).

What does “discriminate” mean?

To make distinctions.

Is “discriminate” formal or informal?

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