Synonyms

characterized

American

[kar-ik-tuh-rahyzd] / ˈkær ɪk təˌraɪzd /

especially British, characterised

adjective

having been described or distinguished.

Further identification is possible by comparing the unknown organism with a characterized organism.

verb

the simple past tense and past participle of characterize.

Other Word Forms

noncharacterized adjective
uncharacterized adjective
well-characterized adjective

Etymology

Origin of characterized

characterize ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The first quarter of 2026 was once again characterized by very challenging economic and geopolitical conditions,” said Marco Schubert, member of the group’s extended executive committee for sales.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

Meme stocks are typically characterized by high trading volumes and price volatility, often driven by social-media trends.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Tradwives and mommy bloggers are characterized by a cartoonishly slick and sanctimonious femininity; they perform choreographed dances with obedient children, bake sourdough bread, offer prayers and affiliate codes in the same breath.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

But in a recent conversation I had with Lawrence, his co-creator Matt Tarses, and Carell before the debut of “Rooster,” Lawrence characterized it simply.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

My guess is that Judge Key had already characterized me as misguided and uncooperative simply because I didn't get off the case, as he had directed.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023