mannerism

noun

ˈma-nə-ˌri-zəm How to pronounce mannerism (audio)
Definition of mannerismnext
as in trick
an odd or peculiar habit quirky mannerisms such as toying with her hair and tapping her toes

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mannerism contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of mannerism are affectation, airs, air, and pose. While all these words mean "an adopted way of speaking or behaving," mannerism applies to an acquired eccentricity that has become a habit.

gesturing with a cigarette was her most noticeable mannerism

When would affectation be a good substitute for mannerism?

In some situations, the words affectation and mannerism are roughly equivalent. However, affectation applies to a trick of speech or behavior that strikes the observer as insincere.

the posh accent is an affectation

When can air be used instead of mannerism?

The words air and mannerism can be used in similar contexts, but air may suggest natural acquirement through environment or way of life.

a traveler's sophisticated air

When could airs be used to replace mannerism?

Although the words airs and mannerism have much in common, airs always implies artificiality and pretentiousness.

snobbish airs

When is pose a more appropriate choice than mannerism?

The words pose and mannerism are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, pose implies an attitude deliberately assumed in order to impress others.

her shyness was just a pose

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mannerism The nearly 6-foot actor was made to look a foot shorter; given a balding, combover haircut; and was forced to adopt a completely new diction and set of mannerisms. —Max Gao, NBC news, 18 Oct. 2025 Their mannerisms change a little bit. —Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 11 Oct. 2025 Since the video went viral, internet users have praised their adorable bond, as many are obsessed by Maude’s dog-like mannerisms. —Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 Would this new body still be the same person with all their quirks and mannerisms, as well as sharing the same interests or dislikes, or a version of them? —Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mannerism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mannerism
  1. trick
  2. trait
  3. characteristic
  4. habit
  5. quirk
  6. idiosyncrasy
  7. peculiarity
  8. eccentricity
Noun
  • In the weeks leading up to Halloween, Newman continues to share wig tips ahead of partying and trick-or-treating.
    — Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Advertisement Apple and caramel dips Apples are a top-tier fall fruit and a healthy, on-theme choice for trick-or-treaters.
    — Angela Haupt, Time, 28 Oct. 2025
Definition of trick
Noun
  • This trait is due to Virgo’s desire to get along with everyone and keep the drama to a minimum.
    — Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
  • The American Culture Quiz is a weekly test of our unique national traits, trends, history and people, including current events and the sights and sounds of the United States.
    — Kelly McGreal , Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2025
Definition of trait
Noun
  • Sadly, the Volvo EX30 missed its moment to be great, but retains some appealing characteristics.
    — Mark Phelan, Freep.com, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Taking inspiration from the Greek enchantress Circe, the fragrance embodies her mythical characteristics of seduction and power, alongside rebellion and creation.
    — Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025
Definition of characteristic
Noun
  • Over the years, Chris Jones has made a habit of praising his line coach, Joe Cullen.
    — Emily Curiel, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Saleh on Lucas Cornerback Chase Lucas has won over Saleh with his play and his study habits.
    — Jerry McDonald, Mercury News, 26 Oct. 2025
Definition of habit
Noun
  • An American traveler’s observations about everyday Italian home quirks have gone viral on TikTok.
    — Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Friend, 52, paints her canine subjects like classic characters, giving them quirks and expressions that feel instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever loved a pet.
    — Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025
Definition of quirk
Noun
  • This has been the friction that’s underneath all of the idiosyncrasy.
    — Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Sprites is the very best idiosyncrasies of Britain that comedy and horror audiences around the world have loved so much since Monty Python.
    — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2025
Definition of idiosyncrasy
Noun
  • This has been Bears-Saints, with enough peculiarity to warrant its own documentary series.
    — Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Its complexities and peculiarities are only dimly recalled, if at all, by many readers.
    — John Swansburg, The Atlantic, 10 Oct. 2025
Definition of peculiarity
Noun
  • The same goes for Lanthimos’ ability to draw performances out of actors that suggest a freedom to indulge in eccentricity, the stranger the better.
    — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Rhoden and her colleagues studied how the eccentricity could have changed to recreate what is seen at Mimas today.
    — Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 10 Oct. 2025
Definition of eccentricity

Browse Nearby Words

mannered
mannerism
mannerisms
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Cite this Entry

“Mannerism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mannerism. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mannerism

Nglish: Translation of mannerism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mannerism

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