mannerism
Translation
mannerism, quirk, habit, idiosyncrasy
Examples
He has a peculiar mannerism of tapping his fingers.
He has a peculiar mannerism of tapping his fingers.
Her nervous mannerisms became more obvious under stress.
Her nervous mannerisms became more obvious under stress.
Grammar Patterns
((a mannerism of -ing)) a particular habit She has a mannerism of clearing her throat before speaking.
((sb.'s mannerisms)) someone's collection of habits I find his mannerisms quite charming.
Similar Words
habit, quirk, idiosyncrasy, tic
Etymology
From 'manner' + '-ism', a suffix denoting a practice or characteristic. A characteristic manner of doing something.
Memory Tips
A 'mannerism' is a small, personal 'manner' that has become a distinctive habit or '-ism'.