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idiosyncrasy

noun

/ˌɪdɪə(ʊ)ˈsɪŋkrəsi/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of idiosyncrasy

A characteristic or behavior that is peculiar to a specific person or group of people.
"She had an idiosyncrasy of humming to herself when she was working."

Detailed meaning of idiosyncrasy

It is a unique feature or quality that sets someone or something apart from others. The term is often used to describe a person's peculiarities or oddities, such as a particular mannerism, habit, or way of speaking. It can also refer to a person's reaction or response to a particular situation, which is not typical of most people. In medicine, idiosyncrasy refers to an unusual or abnormal reaction to a drug or other substance, which can be different from the expected reaction. In general, idiosyncrasy refers to the unique and peculiar characteristics or behaviors that distinguish one person or thing from another.

Example sentences containing idiosyncrasy

1. Her constant need to tap her foot while thinking was just one of her many idiosyncrasies.
2. He had a peculiar idiosyncrasy of never wearing matching socks.
3. The professor's idiosyncrasy was to wear a different bow tie to every lecture.
4. Despite his idiosyncrasy of always eating dessert first, he remained in good health.
5. She had an idiosyncrasy of collecting vintage typewriters.
6. The artist's idiosyncrasy was to sign all his paintings with a hidden symbol.

History and etymology of idiosyncrasy

The noun 'idiosyncrasy' has a fascinating etymology rooted in Greek. It is a combination of two Greek words: 'idios,' meaning 'one's own' or 'personal,' and 'synkrasis,' which means 'blending' or 'mixture.' In ancient Greek medicine, 'idiosyncrasy' referred to an individual's unique constitution or peculiar physical characteristics that influenced their reactions to certain substances or diseases. Over time, the term expanded in meaning to include any characteristic or behavior that is peculiar to a specific person or group of people. The etymology of 'idiosyncrasy' underscores the idea that it represents something deeply personal and distinctive, reflecting individuality and uniqueness in a particular trait, habit, or quirk.

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Further usage examples of idiosyncrasy

1. One of his idiosyncrasies was to alphabetize his bookshelf by color rather than title.
2. The old house had its own idiosyncrasies, like creaky floorboards and secret passageways.
3. He had a charming idiosyncrasy of leaving love notes in random places for his partner to find.
4. The detective's idiosyncrasy was to solve crimes while humming classical music.
5. The restaurant's idiosyncrasy was serving ice cream with unconventional toppings like bacon and pickles.
6. She had an idiosyncrasy of speaking to her plants as if they could understand her.
7. The CEO's idiosyncrasy was to hold walking meetings in the park instead of boardroom discussions.
8. His idiosyncrasy of always wearing mismatched shoes sparked many conversations.
9. The town's idiosyncrasy was its annual parade of people dressed as historical figures.
10. She had an idiosyncrasy of organizing her closet by fabric texture instead of clothing type.
11. The author's idiosyncrasy was to write all his drafts using a typewriter instead of a computer.
12. Despite his idiosyncrasies, he was well-liked by everyone in the community.
13. The idiosyncrasy of her handwriting made it instantly recognizable.
14. The comedian's idiosyncrasy was telling jokes in multiple languages to cater to a diverse audience.