eclectic

pronunciation

How to pronounce eclectic in British English: UK [ɪˈklektɪk]word uk audio image

How to pronounce eclectic in American English: US [ɪˈklɛktɪk] word us audio image

  • Noun:
    someone who selects according to the eclectic method
  • Adjective:
    selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas

Word Origin

eclectic (adj.)
1680s, "not confined to or following any one model or system," originally in reference to ancient philosophers who selected doctrines from every system; from French eclectique (1650s), from Greek eklektikos "selective," literally "picking out," from eklektos "selected," from eklegein "pick out, select," from ek "out" (see ex-) + legein "gather, choose" (see lecture (n.)). Broader sense of "borrowed from diverse sources" is first recorded 1847. As a noun from 1817.

Example

1. Some are more eclectic , presenting links to all types of other sites .
2. Hively is a connoisseur with an acute eye eclectic sympathies and a few strict prejudices .
3. Another tory riposte is that weirdos and eccentrics can also be found in other european blocks , all of which are necessarily broad and eclectic coalitions .
4. Since moving in , garnaut has removed the standard-issue furniture and fashioned the decor in a more eclectic style , including mementos from travels to mongolia .
5. Mr cruddas is the nearest thing labour has to boris johnson , the re-elected mayor of london , in that he presents an eclectic mixture of political ideas , wrapped in outspoken personal charm .

more: >How to Use "eclectic" with Example Sentences