Pronunciation: [dˌɪfəɹˈɛnʃə͡l] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "differential" is unique because it contains a cluster of consonants that can be tricky to pronounce correctly. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is spelled as /ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl/. This means that the "d" is pronounced as /d/, the "i" as /ɪ/, the "f" as /f/, the "e" as /ə/, the "r" as /r/, the "e" as /ɛ/, the "n" as /n/, the "t" as /t/, the "i" as /ɪ/, and the "a" as /əl/.
Differential can be defined as an adjective or a noun with multiple meanings, depending on the context in which it is used.
As an adjective, differential refers to something that is distinctive, varying, or differing from something else. It describes a characteristic or quality of being different or unequal. For example, in the field of mathematics, differential equations are equations that involve derivatives and express a relation between functions and their derivatives. This usage highlights the varying or changing nature of the equations.
As a noun, differential has various meanings. One of its main uses is in the context of a mechanical or automotive device. In this sense, a differential is a set of gears that enables the rotational motion of a shaft to be split into two or more outputs with different speeds. It is commonly used in vehicles to allow the wheels to rotate at different speeds while turning, promoting smooth and controlled movement.
Another usage of the noun differential is in the field of mathematics, where it refers to the infinitesimal difference between two values, commonly denoted as dy/dx. Differential calculus involves the study of these infinitesimal differences, allowing for the calculation of rates of change and slopes of curves.
Furthermore, the term "differential" is also employed in other scientific disciplines such as biology and physics. In biology, it can refer to cells or tissues that exhibit different characteristics or perform different functions, while in physics, it can define the small difference in levels or quantities that influences or causes a noticeable change or effect.
Overall, differential encompasses a range of meanings depending on the subject matter, encompassing distinctions, variations, and differences between entities or values.
Relating to or marked by a difference; distinguishing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Relating to or indicating difference; pert. to an infinitely small variable quantity or difference, which is called a differential quantity.
• The infinitely small variation of a quantity; in commerce, creating a difference; special, as differential duties; in mech., differing in amount, or in the producing force; intended to produce or indicate difference of motion or effect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "differential" is derived from the Latin word "differentia", which itself comes from the verb "differre", meaning "to carry different things, to differ". In Latin, the term "differentia" referred to the distinguishing or distinctive characteristic that sets one thing apart from another. This concept of distinguishing differences is central to the meaning of "differential" in fields such as mathematics, physics, and engineering, where it often refers to the measurement of changes or variations between quantities.
