VocabDictionary

oddities

/ˈɒd.ɪ.tiz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Strange or peculiar items, features, or behaviors that deviate from what is considered normal or expected.

Example Sentences:
  • The antique shop was filled with various oddities, from Victorian medical tools to taxidermy.
  • Despite his many oddities, he was a brilliant and well-respected scientist.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the adjective 'odd,' which traces back to the Middle English 'odde,' meaning 'third' or 'having no match' (from Old Norse 'oddi,' meaning 'point' or 'triangle'). The suffix '-ity' was added to form the noun, denoting the quality or state of being strange or singular.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'odd' things that don't fit into a pair; 'odd-i-ties' are the strange items left over.

Frequently Asked Questions About “oddities

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

In English, oddities (noun) is defined as: “Strange or peculiar items, features, or behaviors that deviate from what is considered normal or expected.”.

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

The antique shop was filled with various oddities, from Victorian medical tools to taxidermy.

3. What are English synonyms of “oddities”?

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

Derived from the adjective 'odd,' which traces back to the Middle English 'odde,' meaning 'third' or 'having no match' (from Old Norse 'oddi,' meaning 'point' or 'triangle'). The suffix '-ity' was added to form the noun, denoting the quality or state of being strange or singular.