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as in single
being one of a pair or set without a corresponding mate somehow, there's always at least one odd sock that comes out of the dryer

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word odd distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of odd are eccentric, erratic, outlandish, peculiar, quaint, singular, strange, and unique. While all these words mean "departing from what is ordinary, usual, or to be expected," odd applies to a departure from the regular or expected.

an odd sense of humor

When can eccentric be used instead of odd?

The words eccentric and odd can be used in similar contexts, but eccentric suggests a wide divergence from the usual or normal especially in behavior.

the eccentric eating habits of preschoolers

When would erratic be a good substitute for odd?

While the synonyms erratic and odd are close in meaning, erratic stresses a capricious and unpredictable wandering or deviating.

a friend's suddenly erratic behavior

When is it sensible to use outlandish instead of odd?

In some situations, the words outlandish and odd are roughly equivalent. However, outlandish applies to what is uncouth, bizarre, or barbaric.

outlandish fashions of the time

When is peculiar a more appropriate choice than odd?

While in some cases nearly identical to odd, peculiar implies a marked distinctiveness.

the peculiar status of America's first lady

When might quaint be a better fit than odd?

Although the words quaint and odd have much in common, quaint suggests an old-fashioned but pleasant oddness.

a quaint fishing village

Where would singular be a reasonable alternative to odd?

The meanings of singular and odd largely overlap; however, singular suggests individuality or puzzling strangeness.

a singular feeling of impending disaster

In what contexts can strange take the place of odd?

The words strange and odd are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, strange stresses unfamiliarity and may apply to the foreign, the unnatural, the unaccountable.

a journey filled with strange sights

When could unique be used to replace odd?

The synonyms unique and odd are sometimes interchangeable, but unique implies singularity and the fact of being without a known parallel.

a career unique in the annals of science

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 odd Soundcore reckons that the screen's large footprint should help prevent the odd gust of wind from spoiling the yard or pool party. New Atlas, 25 Sep. 2025 This wasn't the first time he has been found in an odd spot. Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Sep. 2025 In an odd way, each seems to come to realize that the survival of each is good for both. Rick Mauch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Sep. 2025 In an interview, Doble said the process of obtaining a distillery license is a little odd because the facility needs to have all of the stills and equipment ready for inspection before a license is granted. Angelika Ytuarte, jsonline.com, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for odd
Recent Examples of Synonyms for odd
Adjective
  • Rafaela went 0-for-2 against Fried on the night, while Sogard had a single back in the third.
    Jackson Roberts, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • At launch, Instant Checkout will support single-item Etsy purchases for ChatGPT Free, Plus, and Pro users.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The story becomes less of a character study of the strange ways in which grief manifests and more about the escalating hijinks of a lie that takes on a wild life of its own.
    Lindsey Bahr, Boston Herald, 26 Sep. 2025
  • The options were powerful, immortal, stranger or wanderer.
    Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • News about the meeting broke Thursday, and no reason was initially provided for the unusual gathering.
    Preston Fore, Fortune, 28 Sep. 2025
  • Something tat the grand jury already decided on one count, which is very, very un -- very, very unusual for a grand jury.
    ABC News, ABC News, 28 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • In fact, acute gastrointestinal illness is fairly uncommon on cruise ships, the agency says.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Devine noted that tariffs on cotton imports are uncommon in textile producing countries since the nations want to support the sector.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 30 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Along the way, expect river views, a majestic fall color palette, and the occasional wildlife spotting.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2025
  • Even an occasional rodent will appear, probably the single visitor that caused the suspension of the entire operation.
    Irv Erdos, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • CEOs and global leaders will gather for a dynamic, invitation-only event shaping the future of business.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 29 Sep. 2025
  • All alone in a mind-bending prison, his only chance for escape is teamwork — with himself.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Take the quiz here … CHAOTIC CALAMITY – Seahawks' celebration turns to disaster as bizarre fumble gives Cardinals new life.
    , FOXNews.com, 26 Sep. 2025
  • Watch On Together, the beads and star arms painted a bizarre, layered portrait of Saturn's skies.
    Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 25 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Occasionally, the texts mention our extraordinary political moment.
    Sarah Stankorb, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • This extraordinary collection of two volumes of poems and a third of prose shows the empathy, intuition, and exquisite use of the natural world that make Oliver the heiress of Emerson and Thoreau.
    AudioFile Magazine September 30, Literary Hub, 30 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Odd.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/odd. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

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