The word characteristic has several meanings:
In mathematics, see
In genetics, see characteristic (genetics) .
Characteristic is also sometimes used as a piece of jargon in discussions of universals in metaphysics, often in the phrase 'distinguishing characteristics'.
An I-V or current-voltage characteristic is the current in a circuit as a function of the applied voltage. It is used, for example, to describe diodes and Langmuir probes.
