noun
identity
Exact sameness between things being compared.
The comparison confirms the identity of the two DNA sequences.
Etymology
The Latin source means the same. Identity in this sense preserves exact sameness, asserting that the compared things do not differ in the relevant respect.
More examples
- Despite their identity in shape, the tiles differ in color.
- The two accounts show an identity of detail that suggests copying.
- The identity x + 0 = x holds for every real number.
Forms
identity · identities
identical adjective — Exactly the same as another.
Similar words
- sameness
- A plainer term for having no differences in specified respects.
- equivalence
- Allows equal value or function without requiring exact sameness.
- equality
- Usually concerns equal amounts or values rather than complete sameness.