charactery

[ kar-ik-tuh-ree, -tree ]

noun

1. the use of characters or symbols for the expression of meaning.
2. characters or symbols collectively.

charactery

/ ˈkærɪktərɪ; -trɪ /

noun

1. the use of symbols to express thoughts
2. the group of symbols so used

Word History and Origins

Origin of charactery¹

First recorded in 1580–90; character + -y ³

Example Sentences

It was one of a small edition Dr. Bright had printed up the year before, with the abundant title, Charactery: An Art of Short, Swift, and Secret Writing.

From Literature

"I ken that, but—" "Let me finish, then ask questions. When you go to London, you will attend a performance of a play called The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. You will copy it in Dr. Bright's 'charactery' and you will deliver it to me. Now. Any questions?"

From Literature

I had failed even to make fruitful use of the one skill I did possess—the art of charactery.

From Literature

Without thinking, I wrote them in Dr. Bright's charactery.

From Literature

When I came out to L.A., there was this vibe that if you were an actress you would either play the “pretty girl” or the “charactery” one.

From Washington Times