Dictionary entry

Trait

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Trait (?), n. [F., fr. L. tractus, fr. trahere to draw. See Trace, v., and cf. Tract a region, Trace a strap, Tret.]

1. A stroke; a touch.

By this single trait Homer makes an essential difference between the Iliad and Odyssey. Broome.

2. A distinguishing or marked feature; a peculiarity; as, a trait of character.

☞ Formerly pronounced trā, as in French, and still so pronounced to some extent in England.