peculiar

IPA

Dictionary definition of peculiar

Strange, unusual, or distinctive in a way that is set apart from what is considered normal or typical.
"The car made a peculiar noise whenever he turned the ignition."

Detailed meaning of peculiar

When something is characterized as peculiar, it implies a distinctiveness that may be intriguing or baffling, often because it doesn't conform to expected patterns or norms. This term can apply to various aspects of life, such as a peculiar habit or behavior that stands out as odd, a peculiar taste in fashion or art that diverges from the mainstream, or a peculiar situation or occurrence that defies explanation. "Peculiar" underscores the idea of something being uniquely different or out of the ordinary, often carrying a sense of curiosity or peculiarity that captures one's attention.

Example sentences containing peculiar

1. The old house had a peculiar smell that was hard to identify.
2. His peculiar way of speaking always made him stand out in a crowd.
3. The cat had a peculiar habit of chasing its own tail for hours.
4. The painting featured a peculiar combination of colors that evoked a sense of curiosity.
5. The town had a peculiar tradition of celebrating a unique festival every year.
6. Her peculiar choice of toppings on the pizza raised a few eyebrows.

History and etymology of peculiar

The adjective 'peculiar' has its etymological roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word 'peculiaris,' which means 'personal' or 'distinctive,' derived from 'peculium,' meaning 'private property.' In English, 'peculiar' describes something as strange, unusual, or distinctive in a way that sets it apart from what is considered normal or typical. It implies that the subject possesses unique or uncommon qualities that may be deemed eccentric or unconventional. 'Peculiar' is often used to characterize things, behaviors, or ideas that do not conform to established patterns or norms, and it carries a sense of distinctiveness or idiosyncrasy that makes it stand out from the ordinary.

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Further usage examples of peculiar

1. The antique shop had a collection of peculiar artifacts from different time periods.
2. The scientist noticed a peculiar pattern in the data that warranted further investigation.
3. The mystery novel's plot took a series of peculiar twists that kept readers guessing.
4. The dog's peculiar behavior indicated that something was amiss in the house.
5. The cloud formation had a peculiar resemblance to a famous historical figure.
6. The restaurant served a peculiar blend of spices that gave the dish an unusual flavor.
7. The comedian's peculiar sense of humor left the audience in stitches.
8. The child's peculiar fascination with insects led to a collection of jars filled with bugs.
9. The actor had a peculiar ability to mimic various accents and voices.
10. The rock formation had a peculiar shape that attracted many hikers.
11. The artist's peculiar interpretation of the scene added depth and emotion to the painting.
12. The ancient manuscript contained a peculiar language that required translation.
13. The weather took a peculiar turn, with snow falling in the middle of summer.
14. The hotel had a peculiar rule that guests had to remove their shoes before entering the lobby.