characteristic
Derived from the Greek word 'charaktēr', meaning 'to engrave' or 'to mark'.
NOUN
(1)
[/ˌkɛrɪkˈtɛrɪstɪk/en-US]
A distinguishing quality or feature belonging typically to a person, place, or thing.
| plural |
|---|
| characteristics |
- One characteristic of a good leader is the ability to listen. — A defining quality.
- The characteristic smell of pine filled the air. — A typical feature of something.
- The unique characteristics of the local wildlife make this area special. — Distinguishing features.
ADJECTIVE
(1)
[/ˌkɛrɪkˈtɛrɪstɪk/en-US]
Typical of a particular person, place, or thing; distinctive.
- His quiet demeanor is characteristic of his introspective nature. — Typical of his personality.
- The ornate architecture is characteristic of the Baroque period. — Representative of that style.
- A sudden drop in temperature is characteristic of these mountain regions. — A common occurrence in those regions.