characterization

noun

char·​ac·​ter·​i·​za·​tion ˌker-ik-t(ə-)rə-ˈzā-shən 

ˌka-rik-

: the act of characterizing

especially : the artistic representation (as in fiction or drama) of human character or motives

the author's characterization of the boy as someone who wanted to be accepted by others

Examples of characterization in a Sentence

The reporter was criticized for his characterization of the people of the town as poor and uneducated.

News reporting requires accurate characterization.

The class discussed the author's characterization of the boy as someone who wanted to be accepted by others.

The story has good characterization.

Recent Examples on the Web

Tom Hardy has been fielding comparisons to Marlon Brando since his launch onto the acting scene, not just for his chameleon-like craftsmanship, but for his unique approach to characterization. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 16 June 2024

As promised, the wall placards have been largely purged of the barbed movie mogul characterizations that struck many early observers as being antisemitic. —Michael Cieply, Deadline, 16 June 2024

Such characterizations are simply more creative than Pixar’s banal, pre-AI obviousness. —Armond White, National Review, 14 June 2024

Tiffany disputed Van Orden's characterization of the comments. —Molly Beck, Journal Sentinel, 13 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

see character entry 1

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing characterization

• self-characterization

Kids Definition

characterization

noun

char·​ac·​ter·​i·​za·​tion ˌkar-ik-tə-rə-ˈzā-shən 

1

: the act of characterizing

2

: the creation of characters (as in a book or play)