Char"ac*ter*ize (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Characterized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Characterizing.] [LL. characterizare, Gr. : cf. F. charact'eriser.]
1.
To make distinct and recognizable by peculiar marks or traits; to make with distinctive features.
European, Asiatic, Chinese, African, and Grecian faces are Characterized.
Arbuthot.
2.
To engrave or imprint.
[Obs.]
Sir M. Hale.
3.
To indicate the character of; to describe.
Under the name of Tamerlane he intended to characterize King William.
Johnson.
4.
To be a characteristic of; to make, or express the character of.
The softness and effeminacy which characterize the men of rank in most countries.
W. Irving.
Syn. -- To describe; distinguish; mark; designate; style; particularize; entitle.
© Webster 1913.