(~s, characterizing, ~d)
Note: in BRIT, also use 'characterise'
1.
If something is ~d by a particular feature or quality, that feature or quality is an obvious part of it. (FORMAL)
This election campaign has been ~d by violence...
A bold use of colour ~s the bedroom.
VERB: be V-ed by n, V n
2.
If you ~ someone or something as a particular thing, you describe them as that thing. (FORMAL)
Both companies have ~d the relationship as friendly...
= describe
VERB: V n as adj/n