Distinguishing \Dis*tin"guish*ing\, a. Constituting difference, or distinction from everything else; distinctive; peculiar; characteristic. [1913 Webster] The distinguishing doctrines of our holy religion. --Locke. [1913 Webster] {Distinguishing pennant} (Naut.), a special pennant by which any particular vessel in a fleet is recognized and signaled. --Simmonds. [1913 Webster]