verb (v)

• describe or portray the character or the qualities or peculiarities of(verb.communication)

  Example:
  You can characterize his behavior as that of an egotist.
  This poem can be characterized as a lament for a dead lover.
  

  Synonym:
  characterise, qualify
  

  source: wordnet30
• be characteristic of(verb.stative)

  Example:
  What characterizes a Venetian painting?.
  

  Synonym:
  characterise, exemplify, represent
  

  source: wordnet30
• To make distinct and recognizable by peculiar marks or traits; to make with distinctive features.(verb)

  source: webster1913