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weirdo

C2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /wˈiədəʊ/

US

  • /ˈwɪrdoʊ/

Description

"Weirdo" is not always an insult. It describes someone who seems very different from other people, maybe in their style, hobbies, or way of thinking. Think of the kid in class who collects bottle caps and builds big forts out of cardboard boxes; you might affectionately call them a weirdo. Sometimes it is used in a mean way to make fun of someone, so the tone matters a lot. It is often used playfully among friends, but it can still be hurtful if it is said with bad intent. A creative artist or inventor might be called a "weirdo" by some people, while others simply see them as original and interesting.

Examples

  1. 1

    Suspicious person

    Some weirdo kept knocking on the window last night.

    • Phrase

      some weirdo

      an unknown person you find disturbing or suspicious

  2. 2

    School insult

    The other kids called him a weirdo because he liked different music.

  3. 3

    Personal space

    Don't be such a weirdo and read my messages over my shoulder.

  4. 4

    Family teasing

    She calls her little brother a weirdo when he's being silly.

    • Usage

      with friends or family, it can sound playful instead of seriously insulting

  5. 5

    First impression

    At first I thought my new neighbor was a weirdo, but he's actually just very shy.

  6. 6

    Group identity

    The art club was full of weirdos, and that was exactly why she loved it.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • weirdonoun