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

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

His broadcasting style was idiosyncratic, but his strength of character and his insight into India shone through.

From BBC

Mamdani has sought to chart a starkly different course from his predecessor Adams, a flamboyant former police captain known for his idiosyncratic style and love of publicity.

From Barron's

Related Words

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