VocabDictionary

customary

/ˈkʌstəˌmɛri/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

According to the customs or usual practices associated with a particular society, place, or set of circumstances.

Example Sentences:
  • It is customary to shake hands when meeting someone for the first time in many Western cultures.
  • She performed her customary morning routine of drinking coffee and reading the newspaper.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “customary”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'customarie', originating from the Old French 'costumier', which traces back to the Latin 'consuetudinarius', from 'consuetudo' meaning 'habit' or 'custom'. It reflects the evolution of social practices becoming established norms over time.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'custom' + 'ary'. If something is 'customary', it is part of the 'custom' or tradition of a group.

Frequently Asked Questions About “customary

1. What is the meaning of “customary” in English?

In English, customary (adjective) is defined as: “According to the customs or usual practices associated with a particular society, place, or set of circumstances.”.

2. How do you use “customary” in a sentence?

It is customary to shake hands when meeting someone for the first time in many Western cultures.

3. What are English synonyms of “customary”?

Common synonyms include:usual,habitual,conventional,traditional,wonted

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “customary”?

Derived from the Middle English 'customarie', originating from the Old French 'costumier', which traces back to the Latin 'consuetudinarius', from 'consuetudo' meaning 'habit' or 'custom'. It reflects the evolution of social practices becoming established norms over time.