Quirkiness: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe someone or something that has unique or charming characteristics in a positive, often endearing manner.

• Her quirkiness is what makes her stand out from the rest of the team.
• The café's quirkiness adds to its charming atmosphere.

Eccentricity is used to refer to unusual or unconventional behavior or ways of thinking, often in a way that is perceived as amusing or interesting.

• His eccentricity makes him a fascinating person to talk to.
• The artist's eccentricity is reflected in her unique paintings.

Oddity generally refers to something that is strange or unusual, often in a neutral or slightly negative way.

• The oddity of the situation made everyone uncomfortable.
• His fashion sense is an oddity in this conservative town.

Peculiarity is used to describe something that is distinctively unusual or characteristic, in either a neutral or mildly negative manner.

• One of his peculiarities is that he always wears mismatched socks.
• The building's architecture has several interesting peculiarities.

Unconventionality is used to describe behavior or ideas that go against the norm or standard practices, often appreciated in creative or innovative contexts.

• Her unconventionality in fashion design has earned her numerous awards.
• The professor's unconventionality makes his lectures particularly engaging.

Used to describe playful, unconventional, and charming behavior or characteristics that make someone or something unique in a positive way.

• Her quirkiness makes her popular among her friends; they love her random dance moves and spontaneous jokes

Used to refer to strange, unconventional behavior or habits, often in people who are seen as highly individualistic. It can be perceived both positively and negatively depending on the context.

• His eccentricity is legendary; he collects antique typewriters and wears a top hat wherever he goes

Typically refers to something strange or unusual that stands out from the norm. It can carry a neutral to negative connotation.

• The old mansion was an oddity in the modern city landscape with its gothic architecture

Refers to a strange or unusual feature or habit. It can be neutral but sometimes carries a slightly negative or curious connotation.

• One peculiarity of his speech is the way he pauses before every sentence

Used to describe a specific characteristic or feature that is unusual and not widely shared, often unique to a person or thing.

• One peculiar trait of the breed is its double-jointed toes