character vs characterize

character is a noun but characterize is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
character	Yes	No	Yes	No
characterize	No	No	Yes	No

character (noun)	characterize (noun)
(genetics) an attribute (structural or functional) that is determined by a gene or group of genes
the inherent complex of attributes that determines a persons moral and ethical actions and reactions
a characteristic property that defines the apparent individual nature of something
an actor's portrayal of someone in a play
a written symbol that is used to represent speech
a formal recommendation by a former employer to a potential future employer describing the person's qualifications and dependability
a person of a specified kind (usually with many eccentricities)
an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)
good repute

character (verb)	characterize (verb)
engrave or inscribe characters on	describe or portray the character or the qualities or peculiarities of
	be characteristic of