idiosyncratic

American  

[id-ee-oh-sin-krat-ik, -sing-] / ˌɪd i oʊ sɪnˈkræt ɪk, -sɪŋ- /

adjective

1. pertaining to the nature of idiosyncrasy, or something peculiar to an individual.

   The best minds are idiosyncratic and unpredictable as they follow the course of scientific discovery.

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idiosyncratic British  

/ ˌɪdɪəʊsɪŋˈkrætɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to idiosyncrasy; characteristic of a specific person

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Other Word Forms

• idiosyncratically adverb

Etymology

Origin of idiosyncratic

First recorded in 1750–60; equivalent to idio- ( def. ) + Greek sýnkrat(os) “closely united” + -ic ( def. ); syn- ( def. ), crater

Example Sentences

One cannot simply look up a price quote for an idiosyncratic loan for which there is no secondary market.

From MarketWatch

Chronert says this sets the market up for much more idiosyncratic behavior as investors strive to distinguish between companies most impacted by AI and those that may maintain a competitive edge.

From MarketWatch

Bamberger contributed not only capital but an idiosyncratic management style—among his colorful incentive programs for employees was one called “the Gorilla Plan”—and a shrewd instinct for expansion.

From The Wall Street Journal

We like gold as a tactical play with idiosyncratic drivers but don’t see it as a long-term portfolio hedge.”

From MarketWatch

Even if there is some idiosyncratic risk—say, a stock doubles in price—we aren’t forced to buy it back.

From Barron's

Related Words

• characteristic
• distinctive
• individual
• peculiar
• singular
• specific
• unique