Feature

/ˈfiːtʃər/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonDescriptive
3 meanings3 idioms/phrases3 questions

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A distinctive attribute or characteristic of something.

/ˈfiːtʃər/

nounneutralBeginner
Descriptive

A distinctive attribute or aspect.

The hotel's best feature is its rooftop pool.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're describing a cool toy. A feature is like a special thing that makes it unique, like how it can light up or make sounds. It's a special 'something' that's part of the 'whole'.

👶 For kids: Something special or cool that a thing has, like the shiny wheels on a toy car!

More Examples

2

The film's main feature was a suspenseful plot.

3

The phone has a new security feature.

How It's Used

General

"The car's most notable feature is its fuel efficiency."

Technology

"This software update includes several new features."

2

To present or prominently display someone or something; to include as a significant element.

/ˈfiːtʃər/

verbneutralBeginner
Action

To have or include something as an important element or characteristic.

The exhibition features artwork by local artists.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're showing off your favorite toy. 'Feature' is like saying, 'Look! This toy *has* this cool thing, like flashing lights!' Or, in a movie, 'The movie *shows* the actors in it.

👶 For kids: To show or include something special, like when a show has a guest star!

More Examples

2

The magazine article features an interview with the author.

3

The latest version of the software features several improvements.

How It's Used

Marketing

"The advertisement features a celebrity endorsement."

Arts

"The documentary features interviews with leading scientists."

Tip:Think of 'highlighting' or 'showing off' a special element.
3

The main film or program in a cinema or theater.

/ˈfiːtʃər/

nounneutralmedium
Entertainment

A special attraction at a cinema or theater.

The cinema is showing a new feature this weekend.

💡 Simply: Going to the movies! The feature is the *big* movie, the main event you came to see.

👶 For kids: The main movie you watch at the cinema!

More Examples

2

The feature presentation was delayed by a technical problem.

3

The news program followed the evening's main feature.

How It's Used

Entertainment

"The evening's feature was a new action movie."

Tip:Think of the 'main event' on the movie screen.

Idioms & expressions

a key feature

A crucial or essential element of something.

"A user-friendly interface is a key feature of the app."

a distinguishing feature

A characteristic that makes something or someone different from others.

"Her vibrant personality was a distinguishing feature."

to feature prominently

To be an important or noticeable part of something.

"Renewable energy sources feature prominently in the plan."

From Middle English *feture*, from Old French *fetiere* ('shape, appearance'), from Latin *factura* ('a making, form, workmanship'), from *facere* ('to do, make').

The word 'feature' has been used since the 14th century, originally to refer to the form or appearance of something.

Memory tip

Think of a distinctive 'face' or 'trait' that stands out.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"shape, form"

key featuremain featuredefining featurenew featurespecial featuredistinguishing featurefeature prominently

Common misspellings

feauturefeatuerfeatcher

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written