Eigenart
peculiarity
Definition & meaning
"Eigenart" denotes a characteristic, a peculiarity, or a unique trait that distinguishes an individual, a group, or an object from others. It describes the specific nature or essence of something. In a neutral sense, it refers to a defining feature or individuality. In a more colloquial or slightly critical sense, it can refer to an idiosyncrasy, a quirk, or a strange habit that someone possesses. It is often used to describe the "originality" or "singularity" of a person's behavior or a thing's properties.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a feminine noun: die Eigenart. Its plural form is die Eigenarten. It is a compound noun consisting of two parts: the adjective "eigen" (meaning own, peculiar, or characteristic) and the noun "Art" (meaning kind, type, manner, or way). Etymologically, it points to the specific "manner" that belongs solely to an individual or object.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: Besonderheit, Charakteristikum, Individualität, Merkmal, Wesenszug, Marotte, Macke, Originalität.
Antonyms: Gewöhnlichkeit, Durchschnittlichkeit, Allgemeinheit, Normalität.
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Examples
Jedes Tier hat eine Eigenart.noun
Every animal has a peculiarity.
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