eccentricity
noun
ec·cen·tric·i·ty
ˌek-(ˌ)sen-ˈtri-sə-tē 
plural eccentricities
1
a
: the quality or state of being eccentric
b
: deviation from an established pattern or norm
especially
: odd or whimsical behavior
2
a
: a mathematical constant that for a given conic section is the ratio of the distances from any point of the conic section to a focus and the corresponding directrix
b
: the eccentricity of an astronomical orbit used as a measure of its deviation from circularity
Examples of eccentricity in a Sentence
Some people weren't very tolerant of his eccentricity.
Talking to her plants is one of her many eccentricities.
Recent Examples on the Web
But that’s about the extent of the debate, as few would be able to discern any noticeable eccentricities or downsides to the hybrid system from the driver’s seat.
—
Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
According to the researchers, Mars' significant orbital eccentricity, or deviation from a perfect circle, causes the atmosphere in the southern summer to circulate more energetically, creating conditions ideal for vortex formation.
—Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 16 July 2025
Her parents were decidedly bohemian, their home a gathering place for colorful, offbeat types, so her upbringing was steeped in art and eccentricity.
—Patrick Sauer, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 June 2025
He’s got a mustache with the ends waxed, and that one slight Rip Taylor eccentricity captures his carny-barker spirit.
—Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for eccentricity
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Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
According to the researchers, Mars' significant orbital eccentricity, or deviation from a perfect circle, causes the atmosphere in the southern summer to circulate more energetically, creating conditions ideal for vortex formation.
—Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 16 July 2025
Her parents were decidedly bohemian, their home a gathering place for colorful, offbeat types, so her upbringing was steeped in art and eccentricity.
—Patrick Sauer, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 June 2025
He’s got a mustache with the ends waxed, and that one slight Rip Taylor eccentricity captures his carny-barker spirit.
—Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for eccentricity
Cite this Entry
“Eccentricity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eccentricity. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
eccentricity
noun
ec·cen·tric·i·ty
ˌek-ˌsen-ˈtris-ət-ē
plural eccentricities
1
a
: the quality or state of being eccentric
b
: something that does not follow an established pattern, norm, or rule
especially
: unusual behavior
2
: the amount by which a nearly circular path is not circular
an orbit's eccentricity
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