differentiator

[dif-uh-ren-shee-ey-ter]

noun

1. a person or thing that differentiates.

2. Computers.,  an electronic device whose output signal is proportional to the derivative of its input signal.

3. Electricity, Electronics.,  a transducer or circuit differentiatorcircuit whose output is proportional to the rate of change of the input signal.

Word History and Origins

Origin of differentiator¹

First recorded in 1885–90; differentiate + -or ²

Example Sentences

This democratic accountability is positioned as a key differentiator that could legitimize the retaliatory action.

From Los Angeles Times

Thus, he says the key differentiator between Horror Unleashed and Halloween Horror Nights is not necessarily the tech used in the mazes, but the extended time they can devote to unwrapping a story.

From Los Angeles Times

For next week’s chart, the key differentiator may be both women’s releases of multiple versions of their albums, on rainbows of vinyl or in digital editions with extra goodies to goose fans’ interest.

From New York Times

Local issues have instead served more of a differentiator among the candidates competing for second place, rather than part of a winning strategy.

From New York Times

But “Love Has Won” has one dazzling and bizarre differentiator from those: its followers’ universal connection through the spirit of Robin Williams.

From Salon