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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