eccentric

/ɪkˈsɛntɹɪk/

Group 11Difficulty 1/3

Definitions

(adjective)
Unconventional and slightly strange in behavior; deviating from the usual
GRE
(noun)
An eccentric person
GRE

Example in Context

The eccentric professor, who delivered lectures while pacing barefoot, was beloved by students for his passion and clarity despite his unconventional style.

Synonyms

weirdquirkyodd

Etymology

Deviating from the center — acting outside the norm.

  • ec- (Greek) — out of
  • kentron (Greek) — center

Memory Aid

🥚Sounds like “egg centric

An egg wearing a monocle, saying, 'I’m ECCENTRIC because I’m the only one in a suit!'

Visual Association

🤪A person in a bright polka dot suit, juggling rubber chickens in a serious meeting.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “eccentric” mean on the GRE?

eccentric (adjective) means “Unconventional and slightly strange in behavior; deviating from the usual”. The eccentric professor, who delivered lectures while pacing barefoot, was beloved by students for his passion and clarity despite his unconventional style.

How to remember “eccentric” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “eccentric” sounds like “egg centric”. An egg wearing a monocle, saying, 'I’m ECCENTRIC because I’m the only one in a suit!'

What are synonyms for “eccentric”?

Common synonyms: weird, quirky, odd.