Curiosities: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to things or facts that are interesting because they are unusual or rare. Often used in a context expressing fascination or admiration.

• The museum was full of curiosities from ancient civilizations.
• She kept a shelf of geological curiosities she had collected over the years.

Used when talking about things that are strange or bizarre. Often conveys a tone of mild amusement or eccentricity.

• The antique shop was filled with oddities and whimsical items.
• He always had a fascination for life’s little oddities.

Used to describe characteristics that are distinctive and unique, but slightly unusual. Can be either positive or negative, depending on context.

• One of the peculiarities of living in the old house was the creaking floorboards.
• Every individual has their own peculiarities and habits.

Used in scientific, technical, or analytical contexts to point out deviations from what is normal or expected. Often has a neutral or negative connotation, implying something is not right.

• The researchers found several anomalies in the data.
• The sudden drop in temperature was an anomaly that puzzled the meteorologists.