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

One differentiator is in the emphasis “I Love LA” places on social media as a powerfully shaping presence in the lives of younger adults.

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

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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.

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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.

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

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