Character

English Meaning

A distinctive mark; a letter, figure, or symbol.

1. The combination of qualities or features that distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another. See Synonyms at disposition.
2. A distinguishing feature or attribute, as of an individual, group, or category. See Synonyms at quality.
3. Genetics A structure, function, or attribute determined by a gene or group of genes.
4. Moral or ethical strength.
5. A description of a person's attributes, traits, or abilities.
6. A formal written statement as to competency and dependability, given by an employer to a former employee; a recommendation.
7. Public estimation of someone; reputation: personal attacks that damaged her character.
8. Status or role; capacity: in his character as the father.
9. A notable or well-known person; a personage.
10. A person, especially one who is peculiar or eccentric: a shady character; catcalls from some character in the back row.
11. A person portrayed in an artistic piece, such as a drama or novel.
12. Characterization in fiction or drama: a script that is weak in plot but strong in character.
13. A mark or symbol used in a writing system.
14. Computer Science One of a set of symbols, such as letters or numbers, that are arranged to express information.
15. Computer Science The numerical code representing such a character.
16. A style of printing or writing.
17. A symbol used in secret writing; a cipher or code.
18. Of or relating to one's character.
19. Specializing in the interpretation of often minor roles that emphasize fixed personality traits or specific physical characteristics: a character actor.
20. Of or relating to the interpretation of such roles by an actor: the character part of the hero's devoted mother.
21. Dedicated to the portrayal of a person with regard to distinguishing psychological or physical features: a character sketch.
22. Law Of or relating to a person who gives testimony as to the moral and ethical reputation or behavior of one engaged in a lawsuit: a character witness.
23. Archaic To write, print, engrave, or inscribe.
24. Archaic To portray or describe.
25. in character Consistent with someone's general character or behavior: behavior that was totally in character.
26. out of character Inconsistent with someone's general character or behavior: a response so much out of character that it amazed me.