Freaks: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is extremely unusual or behaves in a strange way. Often has a negative connotation and can be offensive.

• People used to call him a freak because of his weird hobbies.
• She's always felt like a freak in social situations.

Refers to people or things that are strange or unusual. The term can be used neutrally but often highlights uniqueness.

• The museum features a collection of historical oddities.
• He was considered an oddity among his peers due to his unusual interests.

Refers to people who have unconventional and slightly strange behavior or opinions, usually carries a more neutral or even positive connotation.

• The town is known for its eccentrics, each with their unique habits.
• As a writer, he’s considered one of the artistic eccentrics of his generation.

Describes people who do not fit into the conventional norms of society. Usually has a slightly negative tone but can also evoke empathy.

• The movie is about a group of high school misfits forming a band.
• Growing up, she always felt like a misfit in her strict family.

Describes a sudden outburst of irrational behavior or emotion, typically related to fear or anxiety, and can be informal.

• He freaks out every time he sees a spider.
• She freaks whenever there's turbulence on a flight.

Describes a sudden, overwhelming fear or anxiety that can cause irrational behavior and is often linked to emergency situations.

• There was a sense of panic in the crowd when the fire alarm went off.
• He felt panic setting in as the deadline approached.

Used to describe an emotion experienced in response to a threat or danger, whether real or imagined.

• She felt a sudden wave of fear when she heard the noise outside.
• His biggest fear is speaking in public.

Refers to a sudden, brief feeling of fear or surprise, often as a result of an unexpected event.

• The loud noise from the fireworks startled the baby.
• She was startled by the sudden appearance of the dog.