trait

noun

ˈtrāt How to pronounce trait (audio)
British also
ˈtrā How to pronounce trait (audio)
1
a
: a distinguishing quality (as of personal character)
curiosity is one of her notable traits
b
: an inherited characteristic
2
a
: a stroke of or as if of a pencil
b

Examples of trait in a Sentence

This dog breed has a number of desirable traits. honesty is one of her defining traits
Recent Examples on the Web What makes these crustaceans unique, however, are three specific traits that set them apart from practically every other animal on the planet. Scott Travers, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 In fact, there are several helpful traits neurodivergence can also lead to:2 Innovative thinking Ability to deeply focus and recognize patterns Strong observational skills Talent in the arts, sciences, music, and technology Causes Neurodivergence occurs when a person’s brain works differently. Carrie Madormo, Rn, Health, 18 Oct. 2024 However, there are certain traits that can generally determine how well older citizens fare financially, the report found. Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2024 While the international works in progress run wide in storytelling and size, the four Baltic Event projects, picked among 11 submissions, share common narrative traits, according to the section’s manager Helen Räim. Annika Pham, Variety, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for trait 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trait.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, literally, act of drawing, from Latin tractus — more at tract

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of trait was in 1589

Dictionary Entries Near trait

Cite this Entry

“Trait.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trait. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

trait

noun
1
: a quality that sets one person or thing off from another : peculiarity sense 2
curiosity is one of her notable traits
2
: an inherited characteristic
dominant and recessive traits
Etymology

from early French trait "the act of pulling," from Latin tractus, past participle of trahere "to pull, drag" — related to trace entry 1, trace entry 3

Medical Definition

trait

noun
ˈtrāt, British usually ˈtrā
: an inherited characteristic

More from Merriam-Webster on trait

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