Weird

Definition

"Weird" refers to something that is strange or unusual, often in a mysterious or unsettling way.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɪrd/
• Respelling: werd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɪəd/
• Respelling: weerd

In British English, "weird" typically has a slightly longer vowel sound due to the non-rhotic nature of many British accents, leading to the "weerd" pronunciation. The "ɪə" in the IPA indicates a near-diphthong, which is closer to "eer" in sound. This can sometimes be perceived as "weud" due to different regional influences in speech.

Etymology

The term "weird" is derived from Old English "wyrd" which means "fate" or "destiny". The concept of "weird" was originally associated with the supernatural or fate, which has evolved over time to its current usage referring to the strange or unusual.

Derivatives

• Weirdness
• Weirdly
• Weirdo
• Unweird
• Weirding

Synonyms

• Bizarre
• Odd
• Eerie

Antonyms

• Normal
• Typical
• Common

Usage

"Weird" is commonly used to describe something that deviates from what is standard, expected, or familiar. It can be applied to people, situations, or objects that seem peculiar, different, or out of the ordinary.

Related Terms

• Quirky
• Uncanny
• Strange
• Peculiar
• Unusual

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Suggesting something supernatural or otherworldly; uncanny.‍
• Example: The abandoned house always had a weird glow at night.

• Indicative of or relating to fate or the Fates.‍
• Example: In ancient cultures, some believed in the weird power of destiny.

• Very strange; bizarre.‍
• Example: It was a weird coincidence that they wore the same outfit to the party.

Noun

• Fate or destiny.‍
• Example: Some believe in the inexorable weird that guides our lives.

• A person's destiny or fate.‍
• Example: The weirds of the three sisters were intertwined, leading them to the same outcome.