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differentiator

American  
[dif-uh-ren-shee-ey-ter] / ˌdɪf əˈrɛn ʃiˌeɪ tər /

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.


Etymology

Origin of differentiator

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Another key differentiator has become patently clear: As a private company, Clear is shielded from the staffing shortages among TSA officials, which have contributed to hourslong wait times at airports across the country.

From Barron's

“Consequently, AppFolio does not appear vulnerable to significant financial pressures related to AI dislocation—a key differentiator relative to some SaaS stocks that have declined in value recently.”

From Barron's

“Consequently, AppFolio does not appear vulnerable to significant financial pressures related to AI dislocation—a key differentiator relative to some SaaS stocks that have declined in value recently.”

From Barron's

Meanwhile, humanoid robots’ “brains” will rise in importance in 2026, as model capability becomes the key differentiator, they say.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The major differentiator was starting with a clean sheet of paper. That was the secret sauce," explains Mr Hogan.

From BBC