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- Characterize - meaning & definition
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/ˈkærɪktəraɪz/
Meaning & Definition
verb
To describe the distinctive nature or features of someone or something.
The author characterizes the protagonist as a courageous and determined individual.
To be indicative of or to mark the quality of someone or something.
Their innovative approach to problem-solving characterizes the success of the company.
To define or explain the characteristics of someone or something.
The study aims to characterize the effects of climate change on local wildlife.
Etymology
From late 15th century, from medieval Latin 'characterizare', which comes from 'character' + '-ize'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
characterize by
to be typical of or distinguishable due to certain qualities.
characterize something as
to define or classify something based on specific traits.
Related Words
character
a person or figure in a novel, play, or story.
characteristics
features or qualities that distinguish an entity.
characteristic
a distinguishing trait or quality.
Slang Meanings
To put someone in a box.
Don't just characterize him as a jock; he has a lot more depth.
To typecast someone.
It's easy to only characterize her as the 'smart one' in our group.