Definitions

distinctive

[dih-stingk-tiv] / dɪˈstɪŋk tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

different, unique

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cool extraordinary idiosyncratic offbeat original peculiar singular special weird

WEAK

characteristic diacritic diagnostic discrete distinguishing excellent far cry gnarly individual like night and day outstanding perfect poles apart proper separate single superior typical uncommon unreal wicked

Antonyms

STRONGEST

common commonplace normal ordinary regular usual

WEAK

resembling same similar standard

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Black Duck Spirits & Hearth — Chef Sawicki blends duck, fire and his Polish heritage into a distinctive Minneapolis restaurant concept.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Kripke will continue to act as the steward of “The Boys” universe, allowing him to maintain the distinctive tone set by the original.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

The island's distinctive white colour comes from bird droppings - also known as guano - which coat the surface and give it a distinctive smell.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The contenders for best play are a distinctive and distinguished group.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Normally, I slept through everything—through thunderstorms, through Katz’s snoring and noisy midnight pees—so something big enough or distinctive enough to wake me was unusual.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

Vocabulary lists containing distinctive

The Giver

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Walk Two Moons

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The Breadwinner

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!