character
/ˈkæɹ(ə)ktɚ/ noun A1- A being involved in the action of a story; a persona.
- A distinguishing feature; characteristic; trait; nature; phene. · A single locus governing the petal colour character was detected on the linkage group A2.· We were not able to ascertain the character of the relationship.
- A complex of traits marking a person, group, breed, or type. · A study of the suspect's character and his cast iron alibi ruled him out.
- Strength of mind; resolution; independence; individuality; moral strength. · He has a great deal of character.· "You may not like to eat liver," said Calvin's father, "but it builds character."
- A unique or extraordinary individual; a person characterized by peculiar or notable traits, especially charisma. · Julius Caesar is a great historical character.· That bloke is such a character.
- A written or printed symbol, or letter.
- Style of writing or printing; handwriting; the particular form of letters used by a person or people. · an inscription in the Runic character
- A secret cipher; a way of writing in code.
Plural characters
From the library
The shipowner, smiling, followed him with his eyes until he saw him spring out on the quay and disappear in the midst of the throng, which from five o’clock in the morning until nine o’clock at night, swarms in the famous street of La Canebière,—a street of which the modern Phocéens are so proud that they say with all the gravity in the world, and with that accent which gives so much character to what is said, “If Paris had La Canebière, Paris would be a second Marseilles.” On turning round the owner saw Danglars behind him, apparently awaiting orders, but in reality also watching the young sailor,—but there was a great difference in the expression of the two men who thus followed the movements of Edmond Dantès.
She said we couldn’t be too careful what habits we formed and what ideals we acquired in our teens, because by the time we were twenty our characters would be developed and the foundation laid for our whole future life.
And we decided that we would try to be very careful indeed and form respectable habits and learn all we could and be as sensible as possible, so that by the time we were twenty our characters would be properly developed.
Now, should any letters or other documents of a compromising character be found upon him, will it not be taken for granted that all who uphold him are his accomplices?”
Learn character in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.