Feature: meaning, definitions and examples

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feature

 

[ ˈfiːtʃər ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

in technology

A distinctive attribute or aspect of something. It can refer to a specific functionality or characteristic that sets a product or service apart from others.

Synonyms

attribute, characteristic, trait.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
feature

Used when talking about a distinctive quality or important part of something, often in technology, products, or art.

  • The new smartphone has amazing features like facial recognition
  • This car's best feature is its fuel efficiency
characteristic

Used for general qualities or traits that define and distinguish someone or something.

  • One characteristic of a good leader is the ability to listen
  • The characteristic smell of fresh bread filled the bakery
attribute

Typically used in more formal or technical contexts to denote a quality or characteristic inherent to someone or something.

  • Patience is an important attribute for a teacher
  • These attributes make the software very user-friendly
trait

Commonly used to describe a specific quality or aspect of someone's personality or behavior.

  • Honesty is a trait that is highly valued
  • She has a rare trait of always staying calm under pressure

Examples of usage

  • This new smartphone has a unique feature that allows you to unlock it using facial recognition.
  • One of the key features of this software is its ability to automatically update without user intervention.
Context #2 | Verb

in cinema

To give special prominence to a particular actor or aspect in a film or play.

Synonyms

highlight, showcase, spotlight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
feature

When you want to focus on a key aspect or characteristic of something, especially in media, articles, or presentations.

  • The magazine will feature an article on the best travel destinations.
  • The new smartphone features a high-resolution camera.
showcase

When you are presenting something in a way that shows it off to its best advantage, commonly used for talents, products, or important events.

  • The company will showcase its latest products at the trade fair.
  • The talent show provides a platform to showcase upcoming artists.
highlight

When you want to emphasize or draw attention to the most important parts of something, often used in both speech and writing.

  • The teacher highlighted the main points of the lecture.
  • The tour guide highlighted the historical significance of the monument.
spotlight

When you want to focus attention on a particular person, issue, or event, often implying it is being done to attract public interest.

  • The documentary spotlights the challenges faced by refugees.
  • The award ceremony puts a spotlight on the year's best performers.

Examples of usage

  • The director decided to feature a famous actress in the lead role of his new movie.
  • This film features stunning visual effects that have never been seen before.

Translations

Translations of the word "feature" in other languages:

🇵🇹 característica

🇮🇳 विशेषता

🇩🇪 Merkmal

🇮🇩 fitur

🇺🇦 особливість

🇵🇱 cecha

🇯🇵 特徴

🇫🇷 caractéristique

🇪🇸 característica

🇹🇷 özellik

🇰🇷 특징

🇸🇦 ميزة

🇨🇿 vlastnost

🇸🇰 vlastnosť

🇨🇳 特征

🇸🇮 značilnost

🇮🇸 einkenni

🇰🇿 ерекше

🇬🇪 მახასიათებელი

🇦🇿 xüsusiyyət

🇲🇽 característica

Etymology

The word 'feature' originated from the Latin word 'factura', meaning 'a making' or 'a fashioning'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a distinctive or prominent characteristic of something. In modern usage, 'feature' is commonly used in technology and entertainment industries to describe unique attributes or highlighted elements.

See also: feat, feats, featured.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,657, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.