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
Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 July 2025
There are nearly 50 species of pine trees native to North America with diverse characteristics and growing preferences.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025
Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
But all character potential is flattened by writing and direction that allows for just one characteristic apiece.
—David Benedict, Variety, 24 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for characteristic
Noun
Amid this surge in risk, CNBC has charted which states could be best prepared—and least prepared—for a recession, basing the findings on overall economic strength and other characteristics that could insulate an economy from a major downturn.
—Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 July 2025
There are nearly 50 species of pine trees native to North America with diverse characteristics and growing preferences.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025
Adjective
The characteristic rash appears three to five days after initial symptoms, often accompanied by fever spikes exceeding 104 degrees.
—Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
But all character potential is flattened by writing and direction that allows for just one characteristic apiece.
—David Benedict, Variety, 24 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for characteristic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for characteristic
Noun
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For almost 10,000 years, people in the Arctic have kept dogs for hunting and sledding, breeding them for desirable traits.—
Rudy Molinek,
Smithsonian Magazine,
14 July 2025
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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.—
Khloe Quill , Reem Amro,
FOXNews.com,
13 July 2025
Adjective
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The country has a low cost of living, a low crime rate and distinctive cuisine.—
William P. Barrett,
Forbes.com,
19 July 2025
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Meeting space, which is also popular for weddings, is another distinctive amenity.—
Paul Brady,
Travel + Leisure,
19 July 2025
Adjective
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On a recent Friday morning, a group of half a dozen neighbors and business owners in Fountain Square gathered near Leonard Street, looking prepared for a typical neighborhood cleanup.—
Jordan Smith,
IndyStar,
26 July 2025
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Regents selected the two most recent UT presidential appointments at University of Texas at Dallas and UTHealth Houston after a national search by a presidential search advisory committee, per the typical policy.—
Lily Kepner,
Austin American Statesman,
25 July 2025
Noun
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That’s why flexibility is the most important feature of any estate plan built today.—
Luke Britt,
Forbes.com,
21 July 2025
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John Waters thinks one of her films is the among the greatest features of all time.—
Samantha Bergeson,
IndieWire,
21 July 2025
Adjective
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By morning, service on the subway had resumed on a normal schedule.—
Evan Simko-Bednarski,
New York Daily News,
15 July 2025
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Newsweek has contacted the White House press office for comment outside of normal business hours.—
Shane Croucher,
MSNBC Newsweek,
15 July 2025
Noun
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In particular, durability was an important attribute, especially since some games are played in downpours, high heat and sub-zero conditions.—
Jordan Valinsky,
CNN Money,
14 July 2025
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The paternal figure is also known for his adventurous streak, too, all attributes that tie him to Sagittarius.—
Kyle Thomas,
People.com,
11 July 2025
Adjective
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Today, over 3 in 5 cannabis consumers are aware of terpenes: organic compounds present in plants, fungi and cannabis, and are responsible for distinct scents, flavors and therapeutic effects.—
Peter Su,
Rolling Stone,
15 July 2025
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Consider Stapleton International Airport’s reincarnation as Denver’s Central Park neighborhood, or suburban Chicago’s Glenview Naval Air Station’s rebirth as The Glen, a live-dine-play-shop community featuring 2,000 homes in eight distinct enclaves.—
Jeffrey Steele,
Forbes.com,
15 July 2025
Adjective
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The final numbers include a max speed of Mach 0.94 (721 mph), an ultrahigh speed of Mach 0.92 (706 mph), and a standard cruise of Mach 0.85 (652 mph)—the latter delivering its benchmark range.—
Michael Verdon,
Robb Report,
26 July 2025
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Both cameras are far more sensitive than the standard cameras used on Earth.—
Adi Foord,
Space.com,
26 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Characteristic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/characteristic. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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