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. 1. A notable or well-known person; a personage.
   2. A person, especially one who is peculiar or eccentric: a shady character; catcalls from some character in the back row.
10. 1. A person portrayed in an artistic piece, such as a drama or novel.
    2. Characterization in fiction or drama: a script that is weak in plot but strong in character.
11. A mark or symbol used in a writing system.
12. Computer Science.
    1. One of a set of symbols, such as letters or numbers, that are arranged to express information.
    2. The numerical code representing such a character.
13. A style of printing or writing.
14. A symbol used in secret writing; a cipher or code.

1. Of or relating to one's character.
2. 1. Specializing in the interpretation of often minor roles that emphasize fixed personality traits or specific physical characteristics: a character actor.
   2. Of or relating to the interpretation of such roles by an actor: the character part of the hero's devoted mother.
3. Dedicated to the portrayal of a person with regard to distinguishing psychological or physical features: a character sketch.
4. 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.

1. To write, print, engrave, or inscribe.
2. To portray or describe.

in character

1. Consistent with someone's general character or behavior: behavior that was totally in character.

1. Inconsistent with someone's general character or behavior: a response so much out of character that it amazed me.

[Middle English carecter, distinctive mark, imprint on the soul, from Old French caractere, from Latin charactēr, from Greek kharaktēr, from kharassein, to inscribe, from kharax, kharak-, pointed stick.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.