CHARACTER

Definition of CHARACTER

CHARACTER Noun

Character is a noun that refers to the combination of qualities, traits, and attributes that define an individual’s moral and ethical nature. It encompasses the unique aspects of a person’s personality and the distinctive features that shape their behavior and decisions.

Personal Traits: Character describes the set of personal qualities and attributes that make up an individual’s nature. For example, “Her character is marked by honesty, empathy, and resilience.” This usage highlights the fundamental traits that define a person’s personality.

Moral and Ethical Nature: Character also refers to the moral and ethical aspects of a person’s personality. For instance, “His strong character was evident in his commitment to justice and fairness.” This reflects the moral values and principles that influence an individual’s actions.

Behavioral Patterns: The term character can describe consistent behavioral patterns and tendencies. For example, “She demonstrated a calm and steady character even in stressful situations.” This usage emphasizes the behavioral aspects that characterize a person’s responses and actions.

Reputation: Character is often associated with an individual’s reputation and how they are perceived by others. For instance, “His reputation for integrity enhanced his character in the eyes of his colleagues.” This highlights how character influences and reflects one’s public image.

Role in Literature: In literature, character refers to a person or figure in a story or narrative. For example, “The novel’s central character undergoes significant growth throughout the story.” This usage pertains to fictional or dramatic representations of individuals.

Psychological Profile: Character can also refer to the psychological profile and traits of an individual. For instance, “Psychologists study character to understand behavior patterns and motivations.” This reflects the use of character in psychological analysis and study.

Social Interaction: The term character relates to how individuals interact with others and the impact of their personality on social dynamics. For example, “Her warm and engaging character made her well-liked among her peers.” This highlights the influence of character on social relationships.

Moral Development: Character involves the development and growth of moral and ethical qualities over time. For instance, “Character development is a lifelong process influenced by experiences and choices.” This usage underscores the ongoing nature of building and refining one’s character.

In conclusion, character is a noun that encompasses the combination of personal traits, moral values, behavioral patterns, and reputation that define an individual. It plays a crucial role in shaping how people interact with others and is a central element in both personal development and literary contexts. Understanding character helps in appreciating the complex and multifaceted nature of personality and identity.

LOWER

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QUICK

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RIGHT

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Examples of CHARACTER in a sentence

• The main character in the novel faced numerous challenges that tested her resilience.
• His kind and generous character made him beloved by everyone in the community.
• The actor portrayed the character of a troubled detective with great emotional depth.
• The movie’s plot was driven by the actions and growth of its flawed but relatable character.
• Her strong moral character helped her make the right decision in a difficult situation.
• Each character in the play brought a unique perspective, adding depth to the storyline.
• The author carefully developed each character, giving them distinct personalities and voices.
• His unwavering sense of justice was a defining trait of his character throughout the series.

Origin of CHARACTER

Character traces its origins back to the Greek word kharaktēr, meaning “a distinctive mark” or “an engraved stamp,” derived from the verb kharassein, meaning “to engrave” or “to carve.” The term character initially referred to a distinguishing mark or symbol but later expanded to include qualities and attributes that define a person or thing.

• Greek: Kharaktēr (a distinctive mark, an engraved stamp), from kharassein (to engrave, to carve).
• Latin: The Greek kharaktēr was adopted into Latin as character, with a similar meaning of a distinctive mark or symbol.
• Old French: The Latin character evolved into Old French as caractere, referring to a mark or symbol, and later to a person’s traits or nature.
• Middle English: The term entered Middle English as character, encompassing both the idea of distinctive marks or symbols and the qualities or traits of a person or thing.

In contemporary English, character refers to the combination of qualities and attributes that define an individual’s personality, moral nature, or distinctiveness. It can also denote a person in a novel, play, or other narrative works. The term has expanded from its original Greek meaning of an engraved mark to represent the broader concepts of personal attributes and roles in storytelling. Character emphasizes both the internal traits that define a person and the external roles or figures depicted in literature and media.

VICTIM

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TISSUE

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CARING

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SNITCH

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