Bizarre Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bizarre

[bษชหˆzษ‘หr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

strange

Very strange or unusual, especially so as to cause interest or amusement.

Synonyms

odd, strange, unusual, weird.

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Word Description / Examples
bizarre

Use when describing something very unusual or out of the ordinary, often in a surprising or shocking way.

  • The artistโ€™s latest exhibition is filled with bizarre sculptures that defy explanation.
strange

Use when describing something that is unusual or hard to understand, often resulting in curiosity or discomfort.

  • I had a strange feeling that someone was watching me.
odd

Use when describing something slightly unusual or unexpected, but not necessarily in a negative way.

  • It's odd that he didn't show up to the meeting without any notice.
weird

Use when describing something that is very unusual, often causing confusion, discomfort, or amusement. This word can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • That's a weird outfit to wear to a formal event.
unusual

Use when describing something that is not common or normal, often in a neutral or positive way.

  • She has an unusual talent for playing multiple instruments.

Examples of usage

  • It was bizarre that he didn't remember anything about the incident.
  • The movie had a bizarre plot twist that caught everyone by surprise.
  • She wore a bizarre combination of colors that somehow worked well together.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term has been used in the titles of films and music, like 'Bizarre Love Triangle' by New Order, which captures unexpected romance.
  • In the world of comics, 'Bizarre Adventures' showcases strange tales filled with surreal characters and storylines.
  • Television shows frequently feature 'bizarre' elements, such as in 'Bizarre Foods' where the host samples unusual dishes from around the world.

Science

  • Rare animals, like the axolotl, are often described as bizarre due to their unique appearance and lifestyle.
  • In psychology, 'bizarre delusions' are false beliefs that are extremely odd or implausible, illustrating how our minds can create unusual realities.
  • Studies in physics reveal bizarre concepts like quantum entanglement, where particles can be connected in strange ways over distances.

Literature

  • 'Bizarre' often characterizes work by authors such as Franz Kafka, whose stories explore the absurdity of life.
  • In surrealist literature, bizarre elements challenge norms and perceptions, creating new realities for readers.
  • The genre of magical realism often incorporates bizarre situations into everyday life, blending fantasy with authentic settings.

Fashion

  • Fashion designers embrace the bizarre to push boundaries, creating looks that blend the avant-garde with the strange.
  • Bizarre fashion shows often feature unusual designs that challenge traditional beauty standards, leaving audiences in awe.
  • Events like the Met Gala often showcase bizarre outfits that captivate and provoke thought about the nature of fashion and art.

Origin of 'bizarre'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bizarre' comes from the French word meaning 'odd' or 'strange'.
  • In the 16th century, the term was used to describe unusual things in art and fashion.
  • Earlier roots suggest a connection to the Spanish word 'bizarro', meaning brave or noble, which took on a different meaning over time.

The word 'bizarre' originated from the French word 'bizarre', which meant 'odd, extravagant'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 17th century. Over time, 'bizarre' has evolved to describe something very strange or unusual, often in a fascinating or amusing way.


See also: bizarrely.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,273, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.