indistinct
UK: ˌɪndɪˈstɪŋkt | US: ˌɪndɪˈstɪŋkt
adj. not clear or sharply defined
adj. vague or lacking distinctness
indistinct = in<not> + distinct<clear>
- in: A prefix meaning "not" or "without," derived from Latin.
- distinct: From Latin distinctus (past participle of distinguere), meaning "separated" or "clear."
Etymology Origin:
The word "indistinct" combines the negative prefix in- with distinct, which originates from Latin distinguere ("to separate, mark off"). Over time, distinct evolved to mean "clearly perceptible," while indistinct emerged to describe the opposite—something unclear or blurred. The logical progression reflects the Latin roots' emphasis on clarity and separation.
The distant figure was indistinct in the fog.
Her voice was indistinct over the noisy crowd.
The photograph was blurry and indistinct.
Memories of the event grew indistinct with time.
The boundaries between the two concepts remained indistinct.