n.
- the length of the space between two points:
I cycled the short distance home.
- the condition of being remote.
▸a far-off point.
- the full length of a race or other contest.
▸Brit. Horse Racing a space of more than twenty lengths between two finishers in a race.
▸
(the distance)
Brit. Horse Racing a length of 240 yards from the winning post on a racecourse.
- an interval of time.
- aloofness or reserve.
v.
make distant.
▸
(often distance oneself from)
dissociate or separate.
Phrase
- go the distance
last or continue to participate until the scheduled end of a contest. - keep one's distance
stay far away. ▸maintain one's reserve.
Etymology
ME (in the sense ‘discord, debate’): from OFr. or from L. distantia, from distant-, distare (see distant).