Definition

The condition of behaving in a way that is different from what is considered normal or acceptable in society.

Example

The study focused on the causes of social deviancy among teenagers.

Conversation

Did you read that article about social norms and deviancy?

Yeah, it was really interesting how it explained what’s considered normal.

I never thought about how deviancy can vary between cultures.

Exactly! It makes you rethink a lot of things we take for granted.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deviancy → It is formed from "deviant" (from Latin "devians", meaning straying or wandering) and the suffix "-cy" (meaning state or condition). The word "deviancy" refers to the state or condition of straying from the norm or standard behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'straying' ('deviant') from what is usual or expected, and the '-cy' indicates a state of being. This helps you remember that 'deviancy' means the condition of being different from the norm.

Visually Confused Words