I. ˌker-ik-tə-ˈris-tik, ˌka-rik- noun
Date: 1664
1. : a distinguishing trait, quality, or property
2. : the integral part of a common logarithm
3. : the smallest positive integer n which for an operation in a ring or field yields 0 when any element is used n times with the operation
II. adjective
Date: 1665
: revealing, distinguishing, or typical of an individual character
• char·ac·ter·is·ti·cal·ly -ti-k(ə-)lē 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