The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word NATURES
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The straight part
We know that "Characters" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case characters = natures.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does NATURES mean?
NATURES noun- The natural world; that which consists of all things unaffected by or predating human technology, production, and design. (Compare ecosystem.)
- The innate characteristics of a thing. What something will tend by its own constitution, to be or do. Distinct from what might be expected or intended.
- The summary of everything that has to do with biological, chemical and physical states and events in the physical universe.
- Conformity to that which is natural, as distinguished from that which is artificial, or forced, or remote from actual experience.
- Kind, sort; character; quality.
- Physical constitution or existence; the vital powers; the natural life.
- Natural affection or reverence.
- To endow with natural qualities.