peculiar
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pɪˈkjʊlɪə/
KK: /pɪˈkjulɪr/
adjective
Definition
Something that is unusual, strange, or different from what is normal or expected.
Example
Her peculiar sense of humor made everyone laugh.
Conversation
Have you noticed anything peculiar about the new neighbor?
Yeah, they keep their curtains closed all day long.
I heard they have a collection of peculiar antiques in the house.
That explains a lot! It sounds like they have interesting tastes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strange
unusual
unique
Antonyms
common
ordinary
usual
noun
Definition
Not typical or usual; something that is strange or unusual.
Example
His peculiar behavior made everyone curious about him.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a peculiar church in our town?
No, I haven't! What's so special about it?
It's actually exempt from the local diocese's rules.
Root Explanation
Peculiar → It is derived from the Latin word "peculiaris" (meaning belonging to one person) which comes from "peculium" (meaning private property or wealth). The word "peculiar" originally referred to something that is distinctive or unique to a particular individual or group.
Memory Tip
Think of something that belongs specifically to someone — that's what 'peculiar' means, something unique or distinctive to a person.
Visually Confused Words
specular
preocular
pedicular
opercular
specula
secular