Characterization

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˌkæɹəktəɹaɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. a method of depicting or representing the specific attributes, qualities, and distinctive features that define an individual, object, or idea through detailed description
2. the process of delineating and expressing the particular traits, characteristics, and essential nature of a person, thing, or concept in a specific manner
3. The act of describing or portraying the unique traits and features that identify a person, object, or concept

Etymology: Characterization is a plain build: the verb "characterize" plus the suffix "-ation", which turns a verb into a noun for the act or result of doing it. The verb itself goes back to Ancient Greek "kharássō", meaning "to cut into, engrave, or scratch", and from there to "kharaktḗr", an engraver's tool or the mark it leaves. A character was originally a stamped or carved impression, which is why the Greeks could use the same word for a letter of the alphabet and for a distinctive mark or trait. The verb reached English through Medieval Latin "charactērizō", from Greek "kharaktērízō", meaning to mark with a distinguishing stamp. English took "characterize" first, and the noun followed by adding "-ation", a suffix that came into English through Old French and Latin.

Synonyms: depiction, portrayal, representation, description, illustration