Definition

A person, thing, or event that is unusual or strange in some way.

Example

The oddity of the situation made everyone laugh.

Conversation

Did you see that new art installation downtown?

Yeah, it was such an oddity — I couldn't figure out what it was supposed to represent.

Right? It really stands out compared to the other pieces.

Definitely! I love how it sparks conversations about what is considered art.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oddity → It is formed from "odd" (from Old English *odda*, meaning strange or unusual) and "-ity" (from Latin *-itas*, meaning the state or quality of). The word "oddity" refers to the state or quality of being strange or unusual.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'strange' or 'unusual' — 'odd' describes that quality, and '-ity' indicates a state. This helps you remember that an oddity is something that is in a state of being odd.

Visually Confused Words