Idiosyncrasy
/ˌɪd.i.əˈsɪŋ.krə.si/noun
A mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual.
Did you know?The word 'idiosyncrasy' originates from the belief that individual characteristics were influenced by the balance of bodily fluids, linking personality traits to ancient medical theories!
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἰδιοσυγκρασία
“A mixture of one's own (influencing personal characteristics)”
Late Latin
Latin
idiosyncrasia
“Personal constitution or temperament”
Middle French
French
idiosyncrasie
“Personal peculiarity or characteristic”
Early Modern English
English
idiosyncrasy
“A characteristic or habit peculiar to an individual”
18th Century
English
idiosyncrasy
“A physical or mental peculiarity or abnormality”
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