Word a Day
idiosyncrasy
What does idiosyncrasy mean?
idiosyncrasy (noun): a behavior or way of thinking that is characteristic of a person or a group.
Definition: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where does idiosyncrasy come from?
First attested in 1604, in modern sense since 1665, from Ancient Greek ἰδιοσυγκρασία (idiosunkrasía, “one’s own temperament”).
Etymology: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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What does “idiosyncrasy” mean?
a behavior or way of thinking that is characteristic of a person or a group
Right! That's what “idiosyncrasy” means.
a judgment or assessment of the value of something, especially a formal one
Not quite: that's what appraisal means.
a man's personal male attendant, responsible for his clothes and appearance
Not quite: that's what valet means.
a short account of a real incident or person, often humorous or interesting
Not quite: that's what anecdote means.
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