trait

noun

ˈtrāt 

British also

ˈtrā 

1

a

: a distinguishing quality (as of personal character)

curiosity is one of her notable traits

b

: an inherited characteristic

2

a

: a stroke of or as if of a pencil

b

: touch, trace

Synonyms

• affection
• attribute
• attribution
• character
• characteristic
• criterion
• diagnostic
• differentia
• feature
• fingerprint
• hallmark
• mark
• marker
• note
• particularity
• peculiarity
• point
• property
• quality
• specific
• stamp
• touch

Examples of trait in a Sentence

This dog breed has a number of desirable traits.

honesty is one of her defining traits

Recent Examples on the Web

On the other hand, Harris has a significant edge on many character and personal traits, and her personal popularity ratings are a little better than Trump’s. —Craig Gilbert, Journal Sentinel, 5 Nov. 2024

Employees who are accustomed to managing multiple responsibilities may demonstrate greater adaptability and resilience, which are valuable traits in a rapidly changing business environment. Competitive Edge in Hiring. —William Arruda, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Many types of true lilies are classified based on specific traits, such as bloom shape and growth. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2024

When giving feedback, focus on skills and behaviors instead of personality traits. —Rocki Howard, Harvard Business Review, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, literally, act of drawing, from Latin tractus — more at tract

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing trait

• sickle-cell trait

Kids Definition

trait

noun

ˈtrāt 

1

: a quality that sets one person or thing off from another : peculiarity sense 2

curiosity is one of her notable traits

2

: an inherited characteristic

dominant and recessive traits

Etymology

from early French trait "the act of pulling," from Latin tractus, past participle of trahere "to pull, drag" — related to trace entry 1, trace entry 3

Medical Definition

trait

noun

ˈtrāt, British usually ˈtrā

: an inherited characteristic