Characteristic Meaning

UK /ˌkærɪktəˈrɪstɪk/
US /ˌkærɪktəˈrɪstɪk/
Word Definition
characteristic meaning

Characteristic Definition & Usage

noun

A feature or quality that identifies a particular person, thing, or group.

Examples

  • "His honesty is the most important characteristic of his personality."
  • "The characteristic of this fabric is its durability."
  • "One characteristic of a good leader is the ability to listen."
  • "The characteristic flavor of the dish comes from the spices."
  • "Her calm demeanor was a characteristic that helped her succeed in the crisis."
adjective

Describing something as having a distinct or defining feature.

Examples

  • "The characteristic sound of the violin was heard throughout the concert."
  • "His characteristic enthusiasm always lifts the team's spirits."
  • "The characteristic smell of fresh bread filled the air."
  • "The building has a characteristic modern design with sleek lines."
  • "The characteristic color of the sunset was a deep orange."

Cultural Context

The word 'characteristic' derives from the Latin 'character', which originally referred to a distinctive mark or trait. It is used widely in both everyday and academic contexts, often to highlight defining attributes of individuals, groups, or objects.

The Character of the City

Story

The Character of the City

In the bustling city of Lanton, a small group of architects and urban planners gathered to discuss the future of the city's downtown area. Over the years, the city had grown rapidly, and with it, its characteristic blend of old and new. As they sat around a large table, drawings of proposed developments scattered before them, they debated what would define the future of Lanton. Sarah, an architect with a deep passion for history, argued, 'The characteristic charm of the city lies in its old brick buildings. We can't just tear them down for modern skyscrapers. These buildings have been here for decades, some for over a century. They represent who we are.' 'But,' countered Mark, a younger planner, 'the characteristic of Lanton today is its vibrancy. Look at how the younger generation thrives in new spaces. We need to build for them, not just preserve what was.' The debate continued, each side presenting compelling arguments. Sarah emphasized the importance of characteristics like community, heritage, and the city's historical footprint. Mark focused on what makes Lanton unique now – its energy, diversity, and forward-thinking spirit. Later in the day, they all took a walk through the city. They passed by old cafes and high-tech coworking spaces. In the air was a mixture of old-world charm and modern creativity. It was the characteristic atmosphere of Lanton itself – a city that refused to forget its past while embracing the future. As they stood at the edge of the river, looking at the city skyline, Sarah reflected on how the characteristic nature of Lanton wasn't just about the buildings but the people who lived there. It was the people who made the city what it was, and maybe that was the most important characteristic of all. Ultimately, the group decided that the city's future would honor both its past and its potential. 'Let’s make it a place where the old and the new coexist,' Sarah said. Mark smiled, 'That's the true characteristic of Lanton – adaptability.'

The Character of the City