peculiar applies to qualities possessed only by a particular individual or class or kind and stresses rarity or uniqueness.

PECULIAR definition: strange; queer; odd. See examples of peculiar used in a sentence.

PECULIAR definition: 1. unusual and strange, sometimes in an unpleasant way: 2. belonging to, relating to, or found in…. Learn more.

strange or unusual, especially in a way that is unpleasant or makes you worried. The meat tasted rather peculiar. There was something peculiar in the way he smiled. I had a peculiar feeling we'd met …

Define peculiar. peculiar synonyms, peculiar pronunciation, peculiar translation, English dictionary definition of peculiar. adj. 1. Not ordinary or usual; odd or strange: noticed a peculiar odor in the room.

Dec 19, 2025 · peculiar (comparative more peculiar, superlative most peculiar) The sky had a peculiar appearance before the storm. It would be rather peculiar to see a kangaroo hopping down a city …

belonging exclusively to some person, group, or thing: the peculiar properties of a drug. Astronomy designating a star or galaxy with special properties that deviates from others of its spectral type or …

There are 23 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word peculiar, nine of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

She got a peculiar feeling when the phone rang. She had a peculiar expression on her face. He's feeling peculiar. The movie has a peculiarly [= distinctively, uniquely, particularly] American quality.

If you describe someone or something as peculiar, you think that they are strange or unusual, sometimes in an unpleasant way. Mr. Kennet has a rather peculiar sense of humor.