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

'kharaktēr' transformed into the Latin word 'character,' 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 or define the characteristics of something.'