quirk

Everyday

1. A strange or unusual habit or way of behaving: «One of her quirks is wearing odd socks.» tree →
2. A strange thing that happens by chance: «By a quirk of fate, they were born on the same day.» tree →
3. A sudden twist or turn, like a quick curl in handwriting. tree →

In the lessons

In stories quirks make characters memorable and real; in everyday life it is a kind word for odd habits; in science and history «a quirk of history» explains odd facts. Phrases: «a quirk of fate», «a quirk of history», «little quirks».

Examples

• One of Dad's quirks is eating cereal for dinner. tree →
• By a quirk of fate, the two lost friends sat next to each other on the train. tree →
• The house has some quirks, like a door that opens by itself. tree →
• Every pet has its little quirks. tree →
• English spelling is full of quirks. tree →
• A quirk of the rules let the team play an extra match. tree →

Note

Countable: quirk, quirks. Adjective: quirky (odd in a fun way). A quirk is usually harmless and a bit charming, not a bad fault.