To recognize or ascertain what makes (someone or something) different. It is important to differentiate between fact and opinion in a debate.
To make (someone or something) appear different or distinct. The company differentiated its product by adding unique features.
To transform (a function) into its derivative in mathematics. In calculus class, we learned how to differentiate complex functions.
(Biology, intransitive) (of a cell or tissue) to develop or become specialized into a different form or function. During embryonic development, undifferentiated cells differentiate into muscle, bone, and nerve tissue.
To become different or to evolve distinguishing characteristics; to distinguish itself. Over time, the dialect differentiated into several distinct regional varieties.