adjective

typical of a particular person, place, or thing.

he began with a characteristic attack on extremism

typical,usual,normal,predictable,habitual,in character,distinctive,distinguishing,particular,special,especial,individual,specific,peculiar,idiosyncratic,singular,unique,exclusive,unmistakable,representative,symbolic,symptomatic,indicative,diagnostic

noun

a feature or quality belonging typically to a person, place, or thing and serving to identify them.

certain defining characteristics of the school emerge from the study

attribute,feature,quality,essential quality,property,trait,aspect,element,facet,mannerism,manner,habit,custom,way,mark,trademark,hallmark,distinction,idiosyncrasy,peculiarity,quirk,oddity,foible,penchant,proclivity,bent