Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Quirky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤪
Add to dictionary

quirky

[ˈkwəːki ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

personality trait

characterized by peculiar or unexpected traits; unconventional or eccentric

Synonyms

eccentric, unconventional, unusual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
quirky

Use when referring to someone or something that is charmingly unusual or has odd habits and traits. It often has a lighthearted or endearing tone.

  • She has a quirky sense of fashion, always mixing unexpected colors and patterns.
  • The movie's quirky characters made it an instant cult classic.
eccentric

Best used when describing a person or behavior that is significantly odd or unconventional. It often implies a level of oddness that stands out a lot and can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The eccentric professor was known for his bizarre experiments and unconventional theories.
  • Her eccentric behavior made her the talk of the town.
unconventional

Appropriate for describing actions, approaches, or methods that differ from what is generally accepted or traditional. It focuses on being different in a positive or neutral way.

  • His unconventional approach to education has yielded impressive results.
  • They chose an unconventional venue for their wedding.
unusual

Used to describe something that is not common or rare. It can be neutral or imply that something is out of the ordinary but doesn't necessarily carry a positive or negative connotation.

  • It's unusual to see snow in this region during the summer.
  • The painting has an unusual blend of colors that attract a lot of attention.

Examples of usage

  • She has a quirky sense of humor.
  • I love her quirky fashion sense.
  • His quirky behavior always makes me smile.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Many beloved characters in movies and books are characterized as quirky, such as Luna Lovegood from the 'Harry Potter' series and the eccentric inventor Doc Brown from 'Back to the Future.'
  • Quirky fashion trends, like oversized glasses or mismatched socks, have gained popularity in various youth cultures, emphasizing individuality.

Psychology

  • People with quirky traits often stand out in social situations, which can lead to being more memorable and likable.
  • Quirkiness is often celebrated in creative fields, where unconventional thinking can lead to innovative ideas and artistic expression.

Literature

  • In literature, quirky characters often serve as comic relief or as a means to explore serious themes in a lighter way.
  • Authors like Tim Burton and Neil Gaiman frequently feature quirky characters that are endearing yet unusual.

Art

  • Quirky art can draw on elements such as color, form, and technique that challenge mainstream aesthetics, often gaining recognition in modern art movements.
  • Artists like Yayoi Kusama are known for their unique and quirky styles, using dots and repetitive patterns to create engaging works.

Origin of 'quirky'

Main points about word origin

  • The word dates back to the 19th century, possibly derived from the Scottish word 'quirk,' meaning a twist or corner.
  • In the early use of the term, it referred primarily to unusual behavior or mannerisms.

The word 'quirky' originated in the mid-16th century from the word 'quark,' meaning a sudden twist or turn. Over time, it evolved to describe someone or something with peculiar or unexpected traits. The term gained popularity in modern English to describe individuals or things that are unconventional, eccentric, or have a unique charm.

See also: quirk, quirkiness, quirks.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,973, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.