characterize
char|ac|ter|ize /k'ærɪktəraɪz/ (characterizes characterizing characterized)
in BRIT, also use characterise
1 [VERB] be V-ed by n, V n
If something is characterized by a particular feature or quality, that feature or quality is an obvious part of it. (FORMAL)
This election campaign has been characterized by violence...
A bold use of colour characterizes the bedroom.
2 [VERB] V n as adj/n
If you characterize someone or something as a particular thing, you describe them as that thing. (FORMAL)
Both companies have characterized the relationship as friendly...
= describe
in BRIT, also use characterise
1 [VERB] be V-ed by n, V n
If something is characterized by a particular feature or quality, that feature or quality is an obvious part of it. (FORMAL)
This election campaign has been characterized by violence...
A bold use of colour characterizes the bedroom.
2 [VERB] V n as adj/n
If you characterize someone or something as a particular thing, you describe them as that thing. (FORMAL)
Both companies have characterized the relationship as friendly...
= describe