Identity

Definition

Identity is a noun that refers to the qualities, beliefs, personality, looks and/or expressions that make a person or group.

Parts of Speech

Identity is primarily used as a noun.

Pronunciation

• American English: /aɪˈdɛntɪti/ (eye-DEN-ti-tee)
• British English: /aɪˈdɛntɪti/ (eye-DEN-ti-tee)

Etymology

The word "identity" comes from the Latin "identitas", which means "sameness, oneness." It entered the English language in the late 16th century.

Derivatives

• Identifiable (adjective)
• Identically (adverb)
• Identifier (noun)
• Identification (noun)

Synonyms

• Individuality
• Persona
• Character

Antonyms

• Difference
• Dissimilarity
• Unlikeness

Usage

Identity is used to refer to the fact of being who or what a person or thing is. It is often used in discussions of social issues, as well as in psychology and sociology. For example: "He has been struggling with his identity."

Related Terms

• Identity Crisis
• Identity Theft
• Identity Politics

Detailed Definition

Noun: Identity can be used to express several meanings:

1. The condition of being oneself or itself, and not another:
2. "He doubted his own identity."
3. Condition or character as to who a person or what a thing is:
4. "He is known by his cheerful identity."
5. The state or fact of remaining the same one or ones, as under varying aspects or conditions:
6. "The identity of the fingerprints on the gun with those on file provided evidence that he was the killer."
7. Exact likeness in nature or qualities:
8. "An identity of interests."
9. An instance or point of sameness or likeness:
10. "To mistake resemblances for identities."

In general, "identity" is used to convey the concept of the unique characteristics that distinguish an individual or group, often concerning aspects such as culture, personality, nationality, and beliefs.

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