ˈdɪfrəns n. & v. --n. 1
the state or
condition of
being different or
unlike. 2 a
point in
which things
differ; a
distinction. 3 a
degree of unlikeness. 4 a the
quantity by which amounts differ; a
deficit (will
have to
make up the difference). b the
remainder left
after subtraction. 5 a a disagreement, quarrel, or
dispute. b the grounds of disagreement (put
aside their differences). 6
Heraldry an alteration in a
coat of arms distinguishing members of a
family. --v.tr. Heraldry
alter (a coat of arms) to
distinguish members of a family. ømake a (or
all the etc.) difference (often foll. by to) have a
significant effect or
influence (on a
person,
situation, etc.). make no difference (often foll. by to) have no effect (on a person, situation, etc.).
with a difference having a
new or
unusual feature. [ME f. OF f. L
differentia (as DIFFERENT)]