c. 1600, "separate, separated from others that are similar or contiguous" (a sense now obsolete), past-participle adjective from distinguish. Sense of "better known than others in the same class, separated from the generality by superior abilities, character or achievement," hence "famous, celebrated," is by 1714; meaning "having an air of distinction" is from 1748.
1590s, "not kept distinct," from un- (1) "not" + distinguished. Meaning "not elevated above others" is attested from c. 1600.
"worthy to be chosen, distinguished, excellent," mid-14c., from choice (n.). Related: Choiceness.
1560s, "distinguished by greatness, renowned," from Latin illustris "lighted, bright, brilliant;" figuratively "distinguished, famous," probably a back-formation from illustrare "make light, light up, illuminate," figuratively "embellish, distinguish, make famous" (see illustration). Replaced illustre in same sense (mid-15c.), from French illustre.
1942, American English, in reference to movement within the same country (as distinguished from immigration), from in (prep.) + migration.
1590s, "capable of being distinguished from something else;" see distinguish + -able. Meaning "capable of being perceived" is from 1610s. Related: Distinguishably.
from German eiserne kreuz, instituted 1813 by Frederick Wilhelm III of Prussia, originally for distinguished military service in the wars against Napoleon.
flintlock musket, 1670s, from French fusil "musket" (see fusilier). Originally in English as distinguished from the matchlock variety.
