idiosyncrasy etymology

Etymology:

Greek: * "idios" (one's own, special) * "synkrasis" (mixture, blend)

Meaning:

A peculiar or distinctive feature or behavior that is characteristic of an individual or group.

Origin:

The term "idiosyncrasy" was first used in the early 17th century to describe a physical characteristic that is unique to an individual. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any personal or behavioral trait that is unusual or distinctive.

Examples:

  • A person who always wears bright pink socks.
  • A habit of humming while reading.
  • A dislike of loud noises.

Idiosyncrasies can be physical, behavioral, or psychological. They can be harmless or even beneficial, but they can also be socially awkward or even problematic.

The study of idiosyncrasies is known as "idiosynchratology." This field explores the causes and consequences of personality and behavior differences, and seeks to understand the role of idiosyncrasies in human interaction and adaptation.

idiosyncrasy relate terms

  • idiom

    Etymology The word idiom comes from the Greek word idiōma meaning peculiar express

  • rare

    Etymology The word rare comes from the Latin word rarus which means thin scattered

  • foible

    Etymology Middle English feble from Old French feble from Late Latin flebilis deplo

  • personality

    Etymology Late Latin personalitas from Latin persōna mask actor s role character

  • specialty

    Etymology The word specialty derives from the Latin word specialis which means par

  • speciality

    Etymology Special adjective Middle English from Old French especial from Latin s

  • diabetes

    Etymology Greek dia through bētēs passing through Meaning A chronic meta

  • blacklist

    Etymology The word blacklist originated in the 19th century It is thought to have com

  • interpolate

    Etymology The word interpolate derives from the Latin interpolare which means to al

  • career

    Etymology Late Middle English cariere from Anglo Norman French cariere from Old Fren

  • nerve

    Etymology The word nerve comes from the Latin word nervus which means sinew tendo