Definition of differential Differential

/dɪˌfɚɛˈnʃʌl/ - [diferenshul] - dif•fer•en•tial

We found 23 definitions of differential from 6 different sources.

What does differential mean?

Noun Plural: differentials
differential - a quality that differentiates between similar things
		difference the quality of being unlike or dissimilar; "there are many differences between jazz and rock"
differential - the result of mathematical differentiation; the instantaneous change of one quantity relative to another; df(x)/dx
		derived function, derivative, differential coefficient, first derivative
		figuring, computation, calculation, reckoning the procedure of calculating; determining something by mathematical or logical methods
		curvature the property possessed by the curving of a line or surface
differential - a bevel gear that permits rotation of two shafts at different speeds; used on the rear axle of automobiles to allow wheels to rotate at different speeds on curves
		differential gear
Adjective
differential - relating to or showing a difference; "differential treatment"
differential - involving or containing one or more derivatives; "differential equation"
		math, mathematics, maths a science (or group of related sciences) dealing with the logic of quantity and shape and arrangement

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differential (Noun)
The differential gear in an automobile etc.
differential (Noun)
A qualitative or quantitative difference between similar or comparable things.
differential (Noun)
An infinitesimal change in a variable, or the result of differentiation.
differential (Adjective)
Of, or relating to a difference.
differential (Adjective)
dependent on, or making a difference; distinctive.
differential (Adjective)
Having differences in speed or direction of motion.
differential (Adjective)
Of, or relating to differentiation, or the differential calculus .

differential (a.)
Relating to or indicating a difference; creating a difference; discriminating; special; as, differential characteristics; differential duties; a differential rate.
differential (a.)
Of or pertaining to a differential, or to differentials.
differential (a.)
Relating to differences of motion or leverage; producing effects by such differences; said of mechanism.
differential (n.)
An increment, usually an indefinitely small one, which is given to a variable quantity.
differential (n.)
A small difference in rates which competing railroad lines, in establishing a common tariff, allow one of their number to make, in order to get a fair share of the business. The lower rate is called a differential rate. Differentials are also sometimes granted to cities.
differential (n.)
One of two coils of conducting wire so related to one another or to a magnet or armature common to both, that one coil produces polar action contrary to that of the other.
differential (n.)
A form of conductor used for dividing and distributing the current to a series of electric lamps so as to maintain equal action in all.

differential
Of, or relating to a difference.
differential
A difference or the amount of difference between comparable things.

Differentials are the main focus of differential calculus.

Differentials can also be used in automobiles, where they are used for turning, for example, while turning left, the right wheel travels a shorter difference than the left, the differential slows down the wheel so it will not slip.