Custom: meaning, definitions and examples

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custom

[ˈkʌstəm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

design

A product or service that is made to order according to specific requirements.

Synonyms

bespoke, made-to-order, tailor-made.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
custom	Used to describe something made or done according to personal specifications or preferences. It often refers to something different or unique from the standard options available. She ordered a custom necklace with her initials on it The company designs custom software solutions for various businesses
bespoke	Typically used in British English to describe items made specifically for someone's needs or desires. Often associated with luxury or high-end goods, especially clothing and suits. He wore a bespoke suit to the wedding They offer bespoke furniture that perfectly fits your home decor
tailor-made	Often used to refer to clothing that is specifically fitted to an individual. It can also describe anything adapted to meet particular needs or expectations, not limited to clothing. He prefers tailor-made suits because they fit him perfectly The program was tailor-made to address the needs of advanced learners
made-to-order	Describes products that are produced only after an order has been received, ensuring that the item meets the buyer's specifications. Commonly used in food service and manufacturing. The chef prepared a made-to-order pizza just the way she liked it The factory specializes in made-to-order motherboards

Examples of usage

This company specializes in custom furniture.
She ordered a custom-made dress for the event.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

tailored

Made or done to order; custom-made.

Synonyms

bespoke, made-to-order, tailor-made.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
custom	Generally used to describe something created specially according to the specifications or needs of a particular person. He ordered a custom bicycle. The restaurant offers custom-made pizzas.
bespoke	Often used in British English to describe high-quality, handmade products, particularly clothing or furniture, made specifically for an individual. He wore a bespoke suit to the wedding. They have a bespoke kitchen in their home.
tailor-made	Typically used when referring to something that is perfectly suited or customized for a specific purpose or person, often related to clothing but can be used metaphorically. He had a tailor-made suit for his job interview. The training program was tailor-made for beginners.
made-to-order	Commonly used in the context of food or products that are created after an order has been placed, implying freshness and personal preference. The chef prepared a made-to-order salad. She bought a made-to-order dress from the boutique.

Examples of usage

He received a custom suit for the wedding.
She requested a custom design for her website.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'consuetudo', meaning 'habit' or 'usage', showing how customs form over time.
In Middle English, it transformed into 'custome', reflecting the evolving practices and traditions of communities.

Cultural Significance

Customs shape identities in societies, influencing everything from food, clothing, and celebrations to daily rituals.
In many cultures, customs can include rites of passage like weddings or funerals, which hold deep emotional significance.

Legal Context

Customs can influence laws, specifically in areas like trade, where local customs practices may affect international agreements.
In some jurisdictions, customary law can be as binding as written legislation, reflecting community standards and practices.

Social Psychology

People often feel a strong sense of belonging and identity through shared customs, fostering community ties and bonds.
Customs can change over time; as societies evolve, older practices may merge with new influences, showcasing adaptation.

Pop Culture

Many popular celebrations, like Halloween or Thanksgiving, have roots in ancient customs, showing how traditions evolve into modern festivities.
Fictional characters often have unique customs that reflect their background, helping audiences relate to their stories.

Translations

Translations of the word "custom" in other languages:

🇵🇹 personalizado

🇮🇳 कस्टम

🇩🇪 maßgeschneidert

🇮🇩 kustom

🇺🇦 індивідуальний

🇵🇱 niestandardowy

🇯🇵 カスタム

🇫🇷 personnalisé

🇪🇸 personalizado

🇹🇷 özel

🇰🇷 맞춤형

🇸🇦 مخصص

🇨🇿 na míru

🇸🇰 na mieru

🇨🇳 定制

🇸🇮 po meri

🇮🇸 sérsniðin

🇰🇿 арнайы

🇬🇪 მორგებული

🇦🇿 xüsusi

🇲🇽 personalizado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,875, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2872 hotel
2873 resident
2874 abandoned
2875 custom
2876 painting
2877 printing
2878 enjoyed
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