Characteristic - a special quality or trait that makes a person, thing, or group different from others. Feature - an interesting or important part, quality, ability, etc., a part of the face (such as the eyes, nose, or mouth). "Characteristic" is most commonly used to describe a part of an individual's personality, whereas "feature" is most commonly used to describe a part of an individual's physical appearance. Sources: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/characteristics http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/features?show=0&t=1414264865