¹characteristic

noun char·ac·ter·is·tic \ˌker-ik-tə-ˈris-tik, ˌka-rik-\

: a special quality or trait that makes a person, thing, or group different from others

Full Definition of CHARACTERISTIC

: a distinguishing trait, quality, or property

: the integral part of a common logarithm

: the smallest positive integer n which for an operation in a ring or field yields 0 when any element is used n times with the operation

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First Known Use of CHARACTERISTIC

1664

Related to CHARACTERISTIC

Synonyms: affection, attribute, attribution, character, criterion, diagnostic, differentia, feature, fingerprint, hallmark, mark, marker, note, particularity, peculiarity, point, property, quality, specific, stamp, touch, trait

²characteristic

adjective

: typical of a person, thing, or group : showing the special qualities or traits of a person, thing, or group

Full Definition of CHARACTERISTIC

: revealing, distinguishing, or typical of an individual character

— char·ac·ter·is·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

See characteristic defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of CHARACTERISTIC

1665

Related to CHARACTERISTIC

Synonyms: classic, diagnostic (also diagnostical), discriminating, distinct, distinctive, distinguishing, identifying, individual, peculiar, proper, symptomatic, typical

Antonyms: atypical, nontypical, uncharacteristic, untypical

Synonym Discussion of CHARACTERISTIC

characteristic, individual, peculiar, distinctive mean indicating a special quality or identity. characteristic applies to something that distinguishes or identifies a person or thing or class <responded with her characteristic wit>. individual stresses qualities that distinguish one from all other members of the same kind or class <a highly individual writing style>. peculiar applies to qualities possessed only by a particular individual or class or kind and stresses rarity or uniqueness <an eccentricity that is peculiar to the British>. distinctive indicates qualities distinguishing and uncommon and often superior or praiseworthy <a distinctive aura of grace and elegance>.

CHARACTERISTIC Defined for Kids