character

Main Entry:: ¹char·ac·ter
Pronunciation:: \ˈker-ik-tər, ˈka-rik-\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English caracter, from Latin character mark, distinctive quality, from Greek charaktēr, from charassein to scratch, engrave; perhaps akin to Lithuanian žerti to scratch
Date:: 14th century

1 a: a conventionalized graphic device placed on an object as an indication of ownership, origin, or relationship b: a graphic symbol (as a hieroglyph or alphabet letter) used in writing or printing c: a magical or astrological emblem d: alphabet e (1): writing, printing (2): style of writing or printing (3): cipher f: a symbol (as a letter or number) that represents information; also : a representation of such a character that may be accepted by a computer2 a: one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual b (1): a feature used to separate distinguishable things into categories; also : a group or kind so separated <advertising of a very primitive character> (2): the detectable expression of the action of a gene or group of genes (3): the aggregate of distinctive qualities characteristic of a breed, strain, or type <a wine of great character> c: the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and often individualizing a person, group, or nation <the character of the American people> d: main or essential nature especially as strongly marked and serving to distinguish <excess sewage gradually changed the character of the lake>3: position, capacity <his character as a town official>4: reference 4b5: reputation <the scandal has damaged his character and image>6: moral excellence and firmness <a man of sound character>7 a: a person marked by notable or conspicuous traits <quite a character> b: one of the persons of a drama or novel c: the personality or part which an actor recreates <an actress who can create a character convincingly> d: characterization especially in drama or fiction e: person, individual <a suspicious character>8: a short literary sketch of the qualities of a social type

synonyms see disposition, quality, type

— char·ac·ter·less

\-ləs\ adjective

— in character

: in accord with a person's usual qualities or traits <behaving in character>

— out of character

: not in accord with a person's usual qualities or traits <his rudeness was completely out of character>

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