differentiat

v. i. (Biol.) To acquire a distinct and separate character. Huxley. [ 1913 Webster ]

adj. 1. made different (especially in the course of development) or shown to be different; as, the differentiated markings of butterflies; the regionally differentiated results. Opposite of undifferentiated. [ WordNet 1.5 ]

2. (Biol.) exhibiting biological specialization; adapted during development to a specific function or environment; as, differentiated cells. [ WordNet 1.5 ]

n. 1. The act of differentiating. [ 1913 Webster ]

Further investigation of the Sanskrit may lead to differentiation of the meaning of such of these roots as are real roots. J. Peile. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Logic) The act of distinguishing or describing a thing, by giving its different, or specific difference; exact definition or determination. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Biol.) The gradual formation or production of organs or parts by a process of evolution or development, as when the seed develops the root and the stem, the initial stem develops the leaf, branches, and flower buds; or in animal life, when the germ evolves the digestive and other organs and members, or when the animals as they advance in organization acquire special organs for specific purposes. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Metaph.) The supposed act or tendency in being of every kind, whether organic or inorganic, to assume or produce a more complex structure or functions. [ 1913 Webster ]