contrarian etymology

Etymology

The word "contrarian" derives from the Latin "contra," meaning "against," and the suffix "-arian," indicating "relating to." Thus, "contrarian" literally means "relating to being against."

Meaning

A contrarian is a person who holds opinions or takes actions that differ from the prevailing consensus. They tend to challenge established norms and question conventional wisdom. Contrarians often believe that the majority can be wrong, and they seek alternative perspectives and unconventional approaches.

Origin

The term "contrarian" has been used in English since the early 17th century. It initially referred to someone who held theological views contrary to the established church doctrine. In the 18th century, "contrarian" began to be used more broadly to describe individuals who opposed prevailing opinions in various fields, including politics, economics, and social norms.

Over time, the term has taken on a more specific meaning in finance. A contrarian investor is someone who buys stocks or other assets that are out of favor with the majority of investors. Contrarian investors believe that these assets have been oversold and are likely to rebound in value.

Examples

  • A politician who supports a policy that contradicts the majority of their party's platform is a contrarian.
  • An artist who creates works that challenge traditional artistic conventions is a contrarian.
  • An investor who buys undervalued stocks that most other investors are selling is a contrarian investor.

contrarian relate terms

  • contrary

    Etymology The word contrary originates from the Latin word contrarius meaning oppos

  • contra

    Etymology The word contra is derived from the Latin prefix contra meaning against

  • discrimination

    Etymology The word discrimination originates from the Latin word discriminare which

  • abound

    Etymology The word abound comes from the Old French word abondir which in turn came

  • minion

    Etymology The word minion is derived from the Old French word mignon meaning darlin

  • artillery

    Etymology The word artillery is derived from the Old French word artillerie which i

  • carnival

    Etymology and Origin of Carnival The word carnival has its roots in the Latin phrases

  • denizen

    Etymology Late Middle English in the sense dweller in a city or town from Old

  • address

    Etymology The word address derives from the Old French word adrecier which in turn

  • aftermath

    Etymology of Aftermath The word aftermath originates from Middle English c 1425 s

  • restroom

    Etymology The word restroom is a combination of two words Rest Derived from the Old