character - Dictionary definition and pronunciation

char·ac·ter

k-t

r) KEY

NOUN:

The combination of qualities or features that distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another. See Synonyms at disposition.
A distinguishing feature or attribute, as of an individual, group, or category. See Synonyms at quality.
Genetics A structure, function, or attribute determined by a gene or group of genes.
Moral or ethical strength.
A description of a person's attributes, traits, or abilities.
A formal written statement as to competency and dependability, given by an employer to a former employee; a recommendation.
Public estimation of someone; reputation: personal attacks that damaged her character.
Status or role; capacity: in his character as the father.
1. A notable or well-known person; a personage.
2. A person, especially one who is peculiar or eccentric: a shady character; catcalls from some character in the back row.
1. A person portrayed in an artistic piece, such as a drama or novel.
2. Characterization in fiction or drama: a script that is weak in plot but strong in character.
A mark or symbol used in a writing system.
Computer Science
1. One of a set of symbols, such as letters or numbers, that are arranged to express information.
2. The numerical code representing such a character.
A style of printing or writing.
A symbol used in secret writing; a cipher or code.

ADJECTIVE:

Of or relating to one's character.
1. Specializing in the interpretation of often minor roles that emphasize fixed personality traits or specific physical characteristics: a character actor.
2. Of or relating to the interpretation of such roles by an actor: the character part of the hero's devoted mother.
Dedicated to the portrayal of a person with regard to distinguishing psychological or physical features: a character sketch.
Law Of or relating to a person who gives testimony as to the moral and ethical reputation or behavior of one engaged in a lawsuit: a character witness.

TRANSITIVE VERB:
Archaic charac·tered , charac·ter·ing , charac·ters

To write, print, engrave, or inscribe.
To portray or describe.

IDIOMS:
in character

Consistent with someone's general character or behavior: behavior that was totally in character.

out of character

Inconsistent with someone's general character or behavior: a response so much out of character that it amazed me.

ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English carecter, distinctive mark, imprint on the soul, from Old French caractere, from Latin charactr, from Greek kharaktr, from kharassein, to inscribe, from kharax , kharak-, pointed stick

OTHER FORMS:
charac·ter·less (Adjective)

Primary Navigation

Definition of character