Skip to definition.
Get the FREE one-click dictionary software for Windows or the iPhone/iPad and Android apps


Adjective: differential  ,di-fu'ren-shul
  1. Relating to or showing a difference
    "differential treatment"
     
  2. (mathematics) involving or containing one or more derivatives
    "differential equation"
Noun: differential  ,di-fu'ren-shul
  1. The result of mathematical differentiation; the instantaneous change of one quantity relative to another; df(x)/dx
    - derived function, derivative, differential coefficient, first derivative
     
  2. A quality that differentiates between similar things
     
  3. 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

Derived forms: differentials

Type of: bevel gear, calculation, computation, difference, figuring, pinion and crown wheel, pinion and ring gear, reckoning

Encyclopedia: Differential