Traits are distinguishing features or qualities of a person, thing, or organism. They can be inherited, learned, or acquired through experience. See synonyms, translations, and usage examples of traits. The meaning of TRAIT is a distinguishing quality (as of personal character). How to use trait in a sentence. Personality arises from within and makes us who we are. Learn more about how psychologists define personality, study it, and why it is so important. A trait is a particular quality in your personality or a collection of traits associated with a condition. Learn the pronunciation, examples, synonyms and word origin of trait.