Discrimination \Dis*crim`i*na"tion\, n. [L. discriminatio the contrasting of opposite thoughts.]

1. The act of discriminating, distinguishing, or noting and marking differences.

To make an anxious discrimination between the miracle absolute and providential. --Trench.

2. The state of being discriminated, distinguished, or set apart. --Sir J. Reynolds.

3. (Railroads) The arbitrary imposition of unequal tariffs for substantially the same service.

A difference in rates, not based upon any corresponding difference in cost, constitutes a case of discrimination. --A. T. Hadley.

4. The quality of being discriminating; faculty of nicely distinguishing; acute discernment; as, to show great discrimination in the choice of means.

5. That which discriminates; mark of distinction.

Syn: Discernment; penetration; clearness; acuteness; judgment; distinction. See Discernment.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)