n. [ L. discriminatio the contrasting of opposite thoughts. ] 1. The act of discriminating, distinguishing, or noting and marking differences. [ 1913 Webster ]
To make an anxious discrimination between the miracle absolute and providential. Trench. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. The state of being discriminated, distinguished, or set apart. Sir J. Reynolds. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. (Railroads) The arbitrary imposition of unequal tariffs for substantially the same service. [ 1913 Webster ]
A difference in rates, not based upon any corresponding difference in cost, constitutes a case of discrimination. A. T. Hadley. [ 1913 Webster ]
4. The quality of being discriminating; faculty of nicely distinguishing; acute discernment; as, to show great discrimination in the choice of means. [ 1913 Webster ]
5. That which discriminates; mark of distinction.
Syn. -- Discernment; penetration; clearness; acuteness; judgment; distinction. See Discernment. [ 1913 Webster ]