Discriminate
/dɪsˈkrɪm.ɪ.neɪt/noun
To recognize or ascertain the difference; to differentiate.
Did you know?The term 'discriminate' originally held a more neutral meaning, tied to the act of distinguishing between different qualities, a practice once essential in alchemical processes.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
discriminare
“To divide, separate, or distinguish.”
Middle Ages
Old French
discriminer
“To discern or make distinctions.”
16th Century
English
discriminate
“To make a distinction between; to differentiate.”
Modern English
English
discriminate
“To recognize a distinction; often used in contexts of social and moral judgment.”