Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
differential
Adjective/Noun
/ˌdɪf.əˈrɛn.ʃəl/
Definition
A differential is a term used in mathematics and engineering that refers to the difference between two values or the variation in quantities.
Examples
- The car’s differential allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when going around a corner.
- In calculus, the differential of a function represents the change in the function’s value with respect to changes in its input.
Meaning
It often involves calculating the rate of change of a function or the distinction between two or more items.
Synonyms
- discrepant
- divergent
- distinct
