dis·tin·guish 
(dĭ-stĭnggwĭsh)
(dĭ-stĭnggwĭsh)v. dis·tin·guished, dis·tin·guish·ing, dis·tin·guish·es
v.tr.
1.
a. To perceive as being different or distinct: Can you distinguish a pattern in this behavior?
b. To perceive distinctly; discern: The lookout distinguished the masts of ships on the horizon.
2.
a. To demonstrate or describe as being different or distinct: a scientist who distinguished four species of the plant.
b. To be an identifying characteristic of; make noticeable or different: These spices distinguish this style of Asian cooking.
3. To cause (oneself) to be respected or eminent: They have distinguished themselves as dedicated social workers.
v.intr.
To perceive or indicate differences; discriminate: Can the child distinguish between right and wrong?
[Alteration of obsolete distingue, from Middle English distinguen, from Old French distinguer, from Latin distinguere, to separate; see steig- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.]
dis·tinguish·a·ble adj.
dis·tinguish·a·bly adv.