Bizarre

Definition

Bizarre is an adjective describing something very unusual, strange, or out of the ordinary, often in a way that attracts attention or seems surreal.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈzɑr/
• Respelling: bih-ZAHR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈzɑːr/
• Respelling: bih-ZAHR

The pronunciation of "bizarre" is similar in both American and British English, with slight regional vowel variations.

Etymology

The word "bizarre" comes from the French word "bizarre," meaning "strange" or "odd." Its ultimate origin is uncertain but is thought to possibly derive from the Italian word "bizarro," which means "angry" or "eccentric." The word entered English in the 17th century and adopted its current meaning of "unusual" or "strange."

Derivatives

• Bizarrely (adverb)
• Bizarreness (noun)
• Bizarro (noun, informal)
• Bizarrerie (noun)
• Bizarrement (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Strange
• Odd
• Peculiar

Antonyms

• Normal
• Ordinary
• Conventional

Usage

The term "bizarre" is often used to describe events, appearances, or behaviors that are notably out of the ordinary or unconventional. For instance, "The movie had a bizarre plot that kept audiences guessing," or "She wore a bizarre costume that turned heads." It is commonly used in informal contexts to indicate something remarkably unusual.

Related Terms

• Eccentric: Unconventional and slightly strange, often describing behavior.
• Surreal: Marked by unusual, dreamlike qualities.
• Outlandish: Extremely unusual or unconventional, often surprising.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Very unusual or strange: Describes something out of the ordinary, often intriguing or unsettling.
  • Example: "The artist's work was filled with bizarre imagery that puzzled viewers."
• Unexpectedly unconventional or surreal: Refers to something so unusual that it seems surreal or fantastical.
  • Example: "The bizarre twist at the end of the story left everyone speechless."