characterization

noun

UK /ˌkær.ək.tər.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/

US /ˌker.ək.tɚ.əˈzeɪ.ʃən/

Characterization is how a writer shows what a person in a story is like.

The author's characterization of the brave little mouse made readers love her.

SYNONYMS

portrayal description depiction representation sketch

RELATED WORDS

character personality narrator dialogue plot

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The act of describing or identifying the special features of something.

The scientist's characterization of the new rock helped the team understand it.

3. The way an actor builds and plays a role on stage or in a film.

Her characterization of the grumpy king made the whole audience laugh.

4. The process of stating the main qualities or nature of a thing in a formal way.

The report gave a careful characterization of the town's water problem.