characterization
     n 1: a graphic or vivid verbal description; "too often the
          narrative was interrupted by long word pictures"; "the
          author gives a depressing picture of life in Poland";
          "the pamphlet contained brief characterizations of
          famous Vermonters" [syn: {word picture}, {word-painting},
           {delineation}, {depiction}, {picture}, {characterisation}]
     2: the act of describing distinctive characteristics or
        essential features; "the media's characterization of Al
        Gore as a nerd" [syn: {characterisation}]
     3: acting the part of a character on stage; dramaticially
        representing the character by speech and action and
        gesture [syn: {portrayal}, {enactment}, {personation}]
Source: WordNet® 2.0