character
 char·ac·ter (kărʹək-tər)n.
1. The combination of qualities or features that distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another. See Synonyms at disposition.
2. A distinguishing feature or attribute, as of an individual, group, or category. See Synonyms at quality.
3. Genetics. A structure, function, or attribute determined by a gene or group of genes.
4. Moral or ethical strength.
5. A description of a person's attributes, traits, or abilities.
6. A formal written statement as to competency and dependability, given by an employer to a former employee; a recommendation.
7. Public estimation of someone; reputation:
personal attacks that damaged her character.
8. Status or role; capacity:
in his character as the father.
9.
a. A notable or well-known person; a personage.
b. A person, especially one who is peculiar or eccentric:
a shady character; catcalls from some character in the back row.
10.
a. A person portrayed in an artistic piece, such as a drama or novel.
b. Characterization in fiction or drama:
a script that is weak in plot but strong in character.
11. A mark or symbol used in a writing system.
12. Computer Science.
a. One of a set of symbols, such as letters or numbers, that are arranged to express information.
b. The numerical code representing such a character.
13. A style of printing or writing.
14. A symbol used in secret writing; a cipher or code.adj.
1. Of or relating to one's character.
2.
a. Specializing in the interpretation of often minor roles that emphasize fixed personality traits or specific physical characteristics:
a character actor.
b. Of or relating to the interpretation of such roles by an actor:
the character part of the hero's devoted mother.
3. Dedicated to the portrayal of a person with regard to distinguishing psychological or physical features:
a character sketch.
4. 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.tr.v. Archaic charac·tered, charac·ter·ing, charac·ters
1. To write, print, engrave, or inscribe.
2. 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. [Middle English carecter, distinctive mark, imprint on the soul, from Old French caractere, from Latin charactēr, from Greek kharaktēr, from kharassein, to inscribe, from kharax, kharak-, pointed stick.] charʹac·ter·less adj.
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