| 释义 |
oddity|ˈɒdɪtɪ|
[f. odd a. + -ity.]
1. The quality or character of being odd or peculiar; peculiarity, strangeness, singularity.
1750tr. Leonardus' Mirr. Stones Pref., All Manner of precious Stones that have been ever valued for their Beauty, Colour, Oddity, Curiosity. 1824Scott St. Ronan's xxiii, Pray do not set up for wit and oddity; there is nothing in life so intolerable as pretending to think differently from other people. 1888Frith Autobiog. III. vi. 144 The oddity of the situation seemed to strike both at the same time.
2. An odd characteristic or trait, a peculiarity.
1713Steele Guardian No. 144 ⁋1 Our very street-beggars are not without their peculiar oddities. 1826Disraeli Viv. Grey ii. xv, All people have their oddities. 1877Dowden Shaks. Prim. v. 48 Love's Labour Lost is..a comedy of oddities of dialogue.
3. a. An odd or peculiar person.
1748Smollett Rod. Rand. xlv. (1804) 309 This ridiculous oddity danced up to the table at which we sat. 1873Black Pr. Thule xii. 180 He did not wish to gain the reputation of having married an oddity.
b. Something odd or peculiar; a fantastic, grotesque, or strange-looking object; a strange event.
1834L. Ritchie Wand. by Seine 49 When any oddity took place in the town, such as an ill-assorted marriage, or a ridiculous love-suit. 1840Miss Mulock Ogilvies iv, Hugh..had often glanced half-contemptuously at the various oddities which decorated the chamber of the old politician. |