Distiction From OED (The Oxford English Dictionary)
c1225–1848
One of the parts into which a whole is divided; a division, section; a class, category.
a1340–The action of distinguishing or treating with special consideration or honour; the showing of a preferential regard; with a and plural, a mark of special appreciation or honour.
c1374–Something that distinguishes or discriminates; a distinguishing quality, mark, or characteristic; a distinguishing name or title.
a1387–1702The action of dividing or fact of being divided; division, partition; separation. (In quot. 1520, division of opinion, dissension.) Obsolete.
1435–The condition or fact of being distinct or different; difference. With a and plural, an instance of this, a difference.
1699-The condition or fact of being distinguished or of distinguishing oneself; excellence or eminence that distinguishes from others; honourable preeminence; elevation of character, rank, or quality; a distinguishing excellence.