\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}.