Function: adjective
Date: 1665
: revealing, distinguishing, or typical of an individual character
– char · ac · ter · is · ti · cal · ly \ -ti-k( ə -)l ē \ adverb
synonyms CHARACTERISTIC , INDIVIDUAL , PECULIAR , DISTINCTIVE mean indicating a special quality or identity. CHARACTERISTIC applies to something that distinguishes or identifies a person or thing or class <responded with her characteristic wit>. INDIVIDUAL stresses qualities that distinguish one from all other members of the same kind or class <a highly individual writing style>. PECULIAR applies to qualities possessed only by a particular individual or class or kind and stresses rarity or uniqueness <an eccentricity that is peculiar to the British>. DISTINCTIVE indicates qualities distinguishing and uncommon and often superior or praiseworthy <a distinctive aura of grace and elegance>.