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 The team examined the genetic underpinnings of this unusual walking trait. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 26 Sep. 2024 Emotional intelligence: This trait–which includes self-awareness, consideration of others, and the ability to read the room—is increasingly vital. Charles L. Welch, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024 Breakdown of issues, personality traits of both candidates The poll found that compared to Trump, young voters hold a more positive view of Harris as a candidate. Sudiksha Kochi, USA TODAY, 24 Sep. 2024 Risk factors such as low self-esteem, relationship problems, past trauma, and personality traits (like perfectionism and neuroticism) can increase your chance of developing body image challenges at some point in your lifetime. Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 24 Sep. 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 11 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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