GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.9

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

mannerism

noun

/ˈmanərɪz(ə)m/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mannerism

A way of behaving or speaking that is distinctive and characteristic of a particular person or group.
"The athlete's victory pose had become a well-known mannerism after each win."

Detailed meaning of mannerism

It can also refer to a habit, a gesture, or a speech pattern that is unique to an individual. Mannerisms are often considered as part of a person's personality, they can be both positive and negative. Positive mannerisms can be seen as endearing, such as a nervous chuckle, while negative mannerisms can be seen as annoying, such as a constant tapping of a pen. Mannerisms can also be associated with certain professions or social groups, such as the way a military person stands at attention, or the way a lawyer speaks in a courtroom. They can also be a sign of a particular condition or disorder, such as a tic in Tourette's syndrome.

Example sentences containing mannerism

1. The actor's exaggerated facial expressions were part of his comedic mannerism.
2. The professor's mannerism of adjusting his glasses before speaking became well-known.
3. Her unique hand gesture had become her recognizable mannerism.
4. The artist's use of bold strokes was a distinctive mannerism in his paintings.
5. He had a habit of clearing his throat, which became his unintentional mannerism.
6. The poet's use of repetition became a recurring mannerism in his verses.

History and etymology of mannerism

The noun 'mannerism' has an etymology that reflects its focus on distinctive behavior or style. It traces its origins to the Italian word 'manierismo,' which emerged during the Renaissance period. 'Manierismo' was derived from 'maniera,' meaning 'manner' or 'style.' Renaissance artists used 'manierismo' to describe a particular artistic style characterized by exaggerated and distinctive features. Over time, the term 'mannerism' extended beyond the realm of art to encompass distinctive and characteristic ways of behaving or speaking in individuals or groups. The etymology of 'mannerism' highlights its historical association with distinctive styles, emphasizing the idea that it pertains to behaviors or speech patterns that are unique and recognizable as a defining characteristic of a particular person or group.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun mannerism:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of mannerism

1. The musician's signature guitar riff became a mannerism associated with their style.
2. The writer's tendency to use elaborate metaphors was considered a literary mannerism.
3. Her slight nod was a subtle mannerism that conveyed agreement.
4. The politician's constant finger-pointing became a distracting mannerism during speeches.
5. The speaker's frequent use of anecdotes was a mannerism that engaged the audience.
6. The director's preference for close-up shots was a visual mannerism in their films.
7. The professor's habit of pacing while lecturing was a classroom mannerism.
8. The dancer's graceful hand movements were a captivating mannerism on stage.
9. The architect's incorporation of curves into building designs was a recognizable mannerism.
10. The chef's emphasis on using fresh herbs was a culinary mannerism that defined their dishes.
11. The comedian's use of self-deprecating humor was a endearing mannerism in their routines.
12. Her mannerism of twirling her hair when she's nervous is endearing.
13. The actor's exaggerated mannerism added depth to his character.
14. His constant tapping of the table was a mannerism that annoyed those around him.
15. The artist's mannerism of using bold colors became a signature style.
16. She mimicked her friend's mannerism without realizing it.
17. The politician's mannerism of pointing dramatically during speeches became his trademark.
18. The painter's mannerism of elongating the figures created a sense of elegance in his artwork.
19. His nervous mannerism of pacing back and forth showed his anxiety.
20. The singer's mannerism of closing her eyes while performing added emotion to her songs.
21. The professor discussed the mannerism of the Renaissance artists in his lecture.
22. The child's mannerism of sticking out his tongue when concentrating made his parents smile.
23. The comedian's mannerism of using exaggerated facial expressions added humor to his jokes.
24. Her mannerism of always arriving early to meetings impressed her colleagues.
25. The dancer's mannerism of elongating her limbs gave her performances a graceful quality.
26. The musician's mannerism of tapping his foot to the beat showed his passion for the music.
27. His mannerism of always cracking his knuckles made some people cringe.
28. He had a mannerism of scratching his nose when he was lying.