attribute

something that sets apart an individual from others of the same kind list the attributes of a mammal Synonyms affection, characteristic, attribution, character, criterion, diagnostic, differentia, feature, fingerprint, hallmark, mark, marker, note, particularity, peculiarity, point, property, quality, specific, stamp, touch, traitRelated Words badge, indication, sign; emblem, symbol, token; charm, grace; excellence, merit, virtue; eccentricity, idiosyncrasy, oddity, quirk; individuality, singularity, uniqueness

1 to explain (something) as being the result of something else attributed the quick rescue to the well-trained police force Synonyms accredit, ascribe, credit, chalk up, impute, lay, put downRelated Words blame, charge, father (on), impute (to), pin (on); assign, refer; associate, attach, connect, link

2 to give the reason for or cause of a psychotherapist who's a little too quick to attribute every emotional problem or character defect to an unhappy childhood Synonyms account (for), explain, explain away, rationalizeRelated Words condone, excuse, forgive, justify; absolve, acquit, exculpate, exonerate, vindicate