What is the meaning of characterization?

noun

• A graphic or vivid verbal description.
  • usage: "too often the narrative was interrupted by long word pictures"; "the author gives a depressing picture of life in Poland"; "the pamphlet contained brief characterizations of famous Vermonters"
  • synonyms: word picture, word-painting, delineation, depiction, picture, characterisation
• The act of describing distinctive characteristics or essential features.
  • usage: "the media's characterization of Al Gore as a nerd"
  • synonyms: characterisation
• Acting the part of a character on stage; dramatically representing the character by speech and action and gesture.
  • synonyms: portrayal, enactment, personation