What does "notion" mean?

1. (an idea or concept) an idea, belief, or understanding of something. 2. (a sudden desire) a sudden feeling or desire to do something, often without a clear reason. 3. (sewing supplies) small items used for sewing, such as buttons, zippers, and thread. 4. (pretentiousness) the act of thinking you are better or more important than you really are.

How do you use "notion"?

Almost always used in the plural form 'notions'.

notion

US //ˈnoʊʃən// UK //nˈəʊʃən// no·tion

1 an idea or concept (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

an idea, belief, or understanding of something.

a mental representation or conceptual understanding of a particular topic or phenomenon.

Example

Many people still hold the notion that success only comes from hard work.

Example

The traditional notion of a fixed career path has been challenged by the rise of the gig economy and remote work arrangements.
- fact
- certainty
2 a sudden desire (n.)
C1 Advanced Informal

a sudden feeling or desire to do something, often without a clear reason.

an impulsive inclination or whim to perform a specific action.

Example

She had a sudden notion to go for a walk in the rain.

Example

He occasionally took the notion to quit his corporate job and move to the countryside, though he never actually followed through.

Show 2 more sensesShow fewer

3 sewing supplies (n.)
C1 Advanced American English Technical

small items used for sewing, such as buttons, zippers, and thread.

small functional items or accessories used in sewing and haberdashery.

Example

You can find buttons and needles in the notions department of the store.

Example

The tailor kept a vast collection of notions, ranging from vintage brass buttons to high-quality silk threads, in neatly labelled drawers.
- sundries
- haberdashery
4 pretentiousness (n.)
C2 Proficiency Dialect British English Informal

the act of thinking you are better or more important than you really are.

an attitude of pretentiousness or having ideas above one's social station.

Example

Ever since he moved to the city, he's come back home with all sorts of notions.

Example

The locals were quick to criticise anyone who returned from abroad with notions, viewing any change in accent or habit as an affectation.

Usage

Almost always used in the plural form 'notions'.

Teacher's tip

This is specifically common in Irish English to describe someone who is acting 'fancy' or superior.
- pretension
- airs
- humility

Origin

From Latin nōtiō (“a becoming acquainted, a taking cognizance, an examination, an investigation, a conception, idea, notion”), from nōscō (“to know”). Compare French notion. See know.