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 computer
2 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 4b
5 : 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>