Char`ac*ter*is"tic , n.
1. A distinguishing trait,
quality, or property; an element of character; that which characterized. Pope.
The
characteristics of a true critic.
Johnson.
2. (Math.) The integral part (whether positive or negative) of a logarithm.
Char`ac*ter*is"tic (?), a. [Gr. &?;: cf. F. charactéristique.]
Pertaining to, or serving to constitute, the character; showing the character, or distinctive qualities or traits, of a person or thing; peculiar; distinctive.
Characteristic clearness of temper.
Macaulay.
Hear it pronounced