Peculiar

Definition

Peculiar primarily denotes something that is strange or odd, unusual in a characteristically unique or unexpected way.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɪˈkjuːliər/
• Respelling: pi-KYOOL-yer (with "pi" as in "pit," "KYOO" as in "cue," and "lyer" as in "liar")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɪˈkjuːlɪə/
• Respelling: pi-KYOOL-yuh (similar to American English, with "pi" as in "pit," "KYOO" as in "cue," and "yuh" as a softer "ya")

In both dialects, "peculiar" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "KYOO." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the "KYOO" part, though with slight differences in the ending sound between the dialects.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin "peculium", originally meaning "property in cattle" (a form of private property), this word later came to mean "something private or personal". Over time, it evolved in meaning to denote something particular, special, or unique.

Derivatives

• Peculiarity
• Peculiarly
• Peculiarize
• Unpeculiar
• Peculiarness

Synonyms

• Odd
• Unusual
• Strange

Antonyms

• Normal
• Typical
• Ordinary

Usage

"Peculiar" is used to describe something that is distinctively different from the usual or normal. It can refer to a trait, behavior, or aspect that stands out due to its distinctiveness. Sometimes, it can have a slightly negative connotation, implying that the peculiarity is not necessarily favorable, though not always.

Related Terms

• Unique
• Characteristic
• Distinctive
• Rare
• Anomaly

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Strange or odd; unusual.
• Example: "There's a peculiar smell coming from the kitchen."

• Distinctive in nature or character from others; specific or unique to someone or something.
• Example: "This species of plant has a peculiar way of reproducing that is not seen in any other species."

• Belonging exclusively to one person or group; private.
• Example: "She had a peculiar talent for solving complex puzzles quickly."