Distinct, a.
Etymology: [L. distinctus, p. p. of distinguere: cf. F. distinct. See Distinguish.]
1. Distinguished; having the difference marked; separated by a visible sign; marked out; specified. [Obs.] Wherever thus created -- for no place Is yet distinct by name. Milton.
2. Marked; variegated. [Obs.] The which [place] was dight With divers flowers distinct with rare delight. Spenser.
3. Separate in place; not conjunct; not united by growth or otherwise; -- with from. The intention was that the two armies which marched out together should afterward be distinct. Clarendon.
4. Not identical; different; individual. To offend, and judge, are distinct offices. Shak.
2 more senses
5. So separated as not to be confounded with any other thing; not liable to be misunderstood; not confused; well-defined; clear; as, we have a distinct or indistinct view of a prospect. Relation more particular and distinct. Milton.
Syn. -- Separate; unconnected; disjoined; different; clear; plain; conspicuous; obvious.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Distinct, v. t.
To distinguish. [Obs.] Rom. of R.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for distinct; he lists it under clear, evident.
Where he writes about it:
That which is distinct is well defined, especially in outline, each part or object standing or seeming apart from any other, not confused, indefinite, or blurred; distinct enunciation enables the hearer to catch every word or vocal sound without perplexity or confusion; a distinct statement is free from indefiniteness or ambiguity; a distinct apprehension of a thought leaves the mind in no doubt or uncertainty regarding it. — from clear