Definition of: differential

(dif′ə·ren′shəl) adjective
1. Relating to, making, or marked by a difference.
2. Distinctive; discriminative.
3. Math. Pertaining to or involving differentials or differentiation.
4. Mech. Characterized by a construction in which a movement is obtained by the difference in two motions in the same direction. See DIFFERENTIAL GEAR.
—noun
1. Math. a An infinitesimal increment of a quantity: indicated by the symbol Δ. b The derivative of a function multiplied by the increment of the independent variable.
2. A differential rate.
3. Mech. A differential gear.
4. Electr. One of two resistance coils the current of which flows in a direction opposite to that of the other.
—dif′fer·en′tial·ly adverb