'characterize' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kharaktēr,' where 'kharaktēr' meant 'engraver' or 'mark.'

'kharaktēr' transformed into the French word 'caractère,' and eventually became the modern English word 'characterize' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to engrave or mark,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to describe the distinctive nature or features of something.'