trait
3 synonyms for trait, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A distinguishing quality or characteristic of a person or thing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use trait
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
personality trait
common trait
inherited trait
defining trait
Etymology
From Middle French trait ("line, feature"), from Latin tractus ("a drawing, a pulling"), from trahere ("to draw"). A doublet of "tract."
Full origin of trait →Frequently asked questions
What does “trait” mean?
The word “trait” means a distinguishing quality or characteristic of a person or thing. In plain terms, a particular feature of someone's character or personality.
How do you pronounce “trait”?
“Trait” is pronounced trayt (/tɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “trait” in a sentence?
Here is “trait” used in a sentence: “Patience is one of her best traits.”
What part of speech is “trait”?
“Trait” is a noun.
Where does the word “trait” come from?
The word “trait” comes from Latin. From Middle French trait ("line, feature"), from Latin tractus ("a drawing, a pulling"), from trahere ("to draw"). A doublet of "tract.".
Is “trait” a common word?
“Trait” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a trait and a characteristic?
"Trait" and "characteristic" both describe a distinguishing quality of a person or thing and are often used interchangeably. "Trait" is somewhat more common in discussions of personality and genetics, as in "personality trait" or "inherited trait," while "characteristic" is used more broadly across contexts.
What is the difference between a trait and a habit?
A trait is a distinguishing quality or characteristic, often seen as a relatively fixed part of who someone is, such as being naturally curious. A habit, by contrast, is a learned behaviour repeated over time, so traits describe what someone is like, while habits describe what someone does.
Is "trait" used for people, things, or both?
"Trait" can describe a distinguishing quality of either a person or a thing, though it is most frequently used to describe personality qualities in people, such as honesty or patience.
