differential

/ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl/
noun
  1. A difference or variation between two or more things, especially in amount or degree.
    • There is a large differential in pay between entry-level and senior employees.
    • We need to reduce the price differential between our product and the competitor's.
    • The study measured the temperature differential between the two sides of the building.
  2. A gear system in a vehicle that allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when going around a corner.
    • A limited-slip differential helps the truck maintain traction on slippery roads.
    • He learned how to change the oil in the rear differential during the auto repair class.
    • The mechanic said the car's differential needs to be replaced.
Antonyms
adjective
  1. Relating to or showing a difference; distinguishing.
    • The study examined the differential effects of exercise on men and women.
    • The company offers differential pricing for students and seniors.
    • Doctors use differential diagnosis to tell apart diseases with similar symptoms.
  2. Relating to the mathematical concept of a derivative or infinitesimal change.
    • Differential geometry is used in computer graphics to model smooth surfaces.
    • The engineer used differential calculus to calculate the rate of change.
    • In calculus class, we learned how to solve differential equations.