Definition of IDIOSYNCRATIC (original) (raw)
1
a
: a peculiarity of constitution or temperament : an individualizing characteristic or quality
b
: individual hypersensitiveness (as to a drug or food)
2
: characteristic peculiarity (as of temperament)
Synonyms
Examples of idiosyncrasy in a Sentence
Her habit of using “like” in every sentence was just one of her idiosyncrasies. The current system has a few idiosyncrasies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As in Leigh’s Naked, these pathologies don’t simply belong to a subculture; each exchange highlights the idiosyncrasy of communication that only art can reveal. —
Armond White, National Review, 11 Dec. 2024 Julie De Stefano loves the idiosyncrasies of her taildragger, a 1958 American Champion 7FC named Daisy. —Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 24 Nov. 2024 But as the film goes on, those idiosyncrasies reveal themselves to be more like a blend of subterfuge and pleasure, another way for Macrinus to hide his intentions behind a veil. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 22 Nov. 2024 The permitting idiosyncrasies of LA are unique to LA, and LA alone. —Preston Garrett, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for idiosyncrasy 
Word History
Etymology
Greek idiosynkrasia, from idio- + synkerannynai to blend, from syn- + kerannynai to mingle, mix — more at crater
First Known Use
1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Time Traveler
The first known use of idiosyncrasy was in 1604
Dictionary Entries Near idiosyncrasy
Cite this Entry
“Idiosyncrasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idiosyncrasy. Accessed 2 Jan. 2025.
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Last Updated: 21 Dec 2024 - Updated example sentences
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