characterize
verb (used with object)
to mark or distinguish as a characteristic; be a characteristic of.
have characterized
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present perfectof characterize.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Orange County authorities this week touted the success of a novel effort to get e-bikes — which they have characterized as a dangerous and deadly weapon — off the streets.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
Analysts tracking China’s diplomatic positioning have characterized External link the Maduro episode as a test of China’s ability to rally global opinion against U.S. military action, especially among developing countries.
From Barron's ● Jan. 7, 2026
To be sure, many of these same forces have helped drive the market higher this year, as investors have managed to climb what some, including Fundstrat’s Tom Lee, have characterized as a “wall of worry.”
From MarketWatch ● Dec. 18, 2025
Ms. Vaill nevertheless leans into it harder than previous biographers, who have characterized their mutual affection as platonic.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 21, 2025
The sago eaters persisting in lowland swamps exemplify the nomadic hunter-gatherer band organization that must formerly have characterized all New Guineans.
From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond
