as in trait
something that sets apart an individual from others of the same kind
the ability to fashion tools and other characteristics that distinguish human beings from other animals
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
1
as in distinctive
serving to identify as belonging to an individual or group
the characteristic taste of licorice
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in typical
having or showing the qualities associated with the members of a particular group or kind
the characteristic wit and good-naturedness of the Irish
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of characteristic
Christopher McFadden,
Interesting Engineering,
26 June 2026
Burbank argued that just as plants could be improved through careful crossbreeding to optimize their positive characteristics, the same opportunity existed for the improvement of mankind.
—
The Editors,
JSTOR Daily,
25 June 2026
Christopher Vourlias,
Variety,
11 June 2026
Ecology remained characteristic of her approach, but Carson now broadened her aims to encompass a mobilization of public opinion equal to the task of addressing the widespread harms of chemical pesticides in everyday life and agricultural ecosystems alike.
—
Literary Hub,
8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for characteristic
Noun
That gives the technology one of its most attractive characteristics.
—
Christopher McFadden,
Interesting Engineering,
26 June 2026
Burbank argued that just as plants could be improved through careful crossbreeding to optimize their positive characteristics, the same opportunity existed for the improvement of mankind.
—
The Editors,
JSTOR Daily,
25 June 2026
Adjective
The gulf between their two worlds is wide, and Jude straddles it with wide-ranging intellect and his characteristic impish wit, while also telling a surprisingly heartfelt story about the lengths to which a mother will go for love.
—
Christopher Vourlias,
Variety,
11 June 2026
Ecology remained characteristic of her approach, but Carson now broadened her aims to encompass a mobilization of public opinion equal to the task of addressing the widespread harms of chemical pesticides in everyday life and agricultural ecosystems alike.
—
Literary Hub,
8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for characteristic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for characteristic
Noun
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The American Culture Quiz is a weekly test of our unique national traits, trends, history and people — including current events and the sights and sounds of the United States.
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Caretakers manage breeding programs to preserve their distinctive traits, including their long horns and rich brown coloring, a shade associated with royalty, maturity and stability.
Adjective
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The Lebanese Australian producer created his distinctive style by blending sounds from the Arab world with hard-hitting bass music.
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Banfield-Norris, who is Jaden’s grandmother, served a softer contrast to her grandkids’ shoes, opting for the elegant Christian Louboutin Senora leopard-print sandals, which feature a distinctive red sole and a T-strap design.
Adjective
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The researchers said a household needs an income of roughly $120,000 to afford a typical home these days.
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Quantum computing can boost capacity beyond that of a typical computer.
Noun
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Opt for these wireless ones with a 50-hour battery life, comfortable padding, and more handy features.
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One of the most distinguishing features of the new planes are the colors painted on its exterior.
Adjective
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Both Kalshi and Polymarket argue that trading on their platforms is distinct from gambling.
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Schneider also has some distinct tattoos, including a cherry blossom on her right thigh, stylist scissors on her left inner forearm and a flower on the top of her left foot.
Adjective
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The agreement was meant to expand on the ceasefire and resume normal maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
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The capital continued to see unrelenting pressure on its hospitals, with a second consecutive day of nearly 3,000 people seeking care in public hospital emergency rooms, about a third more than normal.
Noun
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This total encompasses the energy output alongside its associated capacity and environmental attributes.
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All great attributes for the Hawks’ post-Trae Young reality.
Adjective
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In Taiwan, the university where a prospective student was caught cheating is now reviewing rules and standard operating procedures for AI eyewears during examinations.
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Travel adviser Lori Swinderman, president of Travel By La Buena Vida, says even a standard itinerary allows for touches of luxury — a few nights in a beautiful hotel, a special experience, or thoughtful upgrades can make all the difference.
Cite this Entry
“Characteristic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/characteristic. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
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