# quirk

/ˈkwɝk/ (US) · /kwˈɜːk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/quirk
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a strange or unusual habit or part of someone's personality. It is usually something small that makes a person different from others but is not necessarily bad.

For teachers: a peculiar behavioral habit or an unexpected aspect of something's character. Often implies a minor, idiosyncratic trait that is harmless or even endearing.

## Examples

- One of his quirks is that he only drinks tea from a blue mug.
- The old house has several quirks, like a kitchen floor that slopes slightly to the left.
- While her writing style is generally formal, she occasionally indulges in the quirk of using archaic vocabulary to add a touch of historical flavor to her essays.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'of' to describe a specific habit.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.