Weird Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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weird

[wɪrd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

behavior

suggesting something supernatural; uncanny

Synonyms

bizarre, odd, peculiar, strange, unusual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
weird	Use 'weird' to describe something that is unusual and makes you feel a bit uncomfortable or is hard to explain. That movie was really weird. She has a weird sense of humor.
strange	Use 'strange' to talk about something that is different from the usual or ordinary, often making you feel surprised or uneasy. That's a strange question to ask. She had a strange feeling that she was being watched.
odd	Use 'odd' to describe something that is unusual or different from what is normal, but in a less intense way than 'weird'. He has some odd habits. There was something odd about the way she looked at me.
peculiar	Use 'peculiar' to describe something that is strange or unusual, often in a distinctive or specific way. This place has a peculiar smell. He has a peculiar way of speaking.
unusual	Use 'unusual' when something is not common or typical, without necessarily having a negative connotation. It's unusual to see snow in this region. He has an unusual name.
bizarre	Use 'bizarre' for something that is very unusual or strange in a way that is especially shocking or surprising. The magician performed the most bizarre tricks. His outfit was absolutely bizarre.

Examples of usage

It was a weird coincidence that we both had the same dream.
That house gives me a weird feeling, like someone is watching us.
The weird noises coming from the attic made us all uneasy.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

appearance

strikingly odd or different

Synonyms

eccentric, idiosyncratic, offbeat, outlandish, quirky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
weird	This word is often used in everyday language to describe something or someone that is strange or unusual in a way that might make people uncomfortable. The noise in the attic is really weird, I can't figure out what's causing it. She had a weird dream last night about flying elephants.
eccentric	Typically used to describe someone who behaves in a way that is different from the norm, often in an interesting or charming manner rather than a disturbing one. The old man in the village is quite eccentric; he always wears a top hat and carries a cane. Her eccentric ideas about art have made her quite popular in the local community.
quirky	Used to describe something or someone that is charmingly unusual, often in a cute or endearing way. She lives in a quirky little house with mismatched furniture. The movie is full of quirky characters that are both entertaining and lovable.
offbeat	Used to describe something that is unconventional or unusual, often in a positive or creative manner. The band's offbeat sound has attracted a loyal following. She has an offbeat sense of humor that always makes people laugh.
outlandish	This word describes something that is extremely unusual or strange, often to the point of being shocking. It has a slightly negative or exaggerated connotation. He showed up to the party in an outlandish costume that no one could recognize. Her outlandish behavior at the meeting left everyone speechless.
idiosyncratic	This word is used to describe behaviors or habits that are peculiar to an individual. It's often used in formal or written language. His idiosyncratic way of speaking makes him stand out among his peers. The artist has an idiosyncratic style that is recognized worldwide.

Examples of usage

She has a weird fashion sense, always wearing mismatched clothes.
The painting had a weird combination of colors that somehow worked together.
The sculpture was so weird and abstract, it left everyone puzzled.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

The TV show 'Stranger Things' features a character named Eleven who has weird powers, emphasizing the uniqueness of being different.
The song 'Weird Al' Yankovic is known for parodying popular music, often celebrating the joy of being unconventional.
Weird fiction is a literary genre that blends horror, fantasy, and science fiction, challenging traditional storytelling norms.

Psychology

People often find comfort in the 'weird' because it challenges their perceptions and expands their sense of normal.
Studies show that those who embrace their weirdness tend to have higher levels of creativity and originality.
Being labeled 'weird' can affect self-esteem but can also foster a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals.

Art

The surrealist movement in art often showcases weird imagery that challenges reality and provokes thought.
Artists like Salvador Dalí used strange, dream-like scenes to convey the weirdness of the unconscious mind.
Contemporary art often embraces the weird, reflecting societal changes and diverse expressions of identity.

Language

The term 'weird' has various synonyms like strange, bizarre, and quirky, each with its own unique connotation.
In slang, 'weird' can also be used positively, meaning someone is interesting or unique in a good way.
'Weird' can sometimes carry a stigma, affecting how individuals express their identities and beliefs.

Origin of 'weird'

Main points about word origin

The word 'weird' comes from the Old English 'wyrd', which meant fate or destiny.
In Shakespeare's time, 'weird' referred to the Fates, the three sisters who controlled people's destinies.
The meaning shifted over time to describe things that are odd or out of the ordinary.

The word 'weird' has Old English origins, with roots in the Old Norse word 'verðr', meaning 'fated' or 'destined'. Over time, it evolved to mean 'supernatural' or 'uncanny', reflecting a sense of something beyond the normal or expected. The modern usage of 'weird' as something strange or odd developed in Middle English, influenced by both its original meaning and by the changing perceptions of the world. Today, 'weird' is a versatile adjective used to describe anything that is unusual, peculiar, or strikingly different.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,596 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9593 entail
9594 stuffed
9595 marsh
9596 weird
9597 carbohydrate
9598 clarification
9599 wrap
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