Synonyms of mannerism

mannerism

noun

ˈma-nə-ˌri-zəm 

as in trick

an odd or peculiar habit

quirky mannerisms such as toying with her hair and tapping her toes

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trick
• trait
• characteristic
• habit
• quirk
• idiosyncrasy
• peculiarity
• eccentricity
• singularity
• individualism
• tic
• twist
• curiosity
• oddity
• attitude
• quip
• personality
• affectation
• attribute
• erraticism
• kink
• character
• tendency
• quiddity
• crotchet
• practice
• pattern
• way
• property
• airs
• abnormality
• predilection
• temperament
• addiction
• custom
• weirdness
• individuality
• humor
• perversion
• predisposition
• proclivity
• disposition
• partiality
• identity
• inclination
• wont
• penchant
• neuroticism
• propensity
• genius
• mark
• nature
• bent
• turn
• leaning

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• conformity
• sameness

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

Recent Examples of mannerism

She’s given it her face, her voice, her mannerisms. —Tim Requarth, Longreads, 9 Apr. 2026

Malcolm’s teenage daughter, Leah (Keeley Karsten), nails Malcolm’s mannerisms and resembles Muniz. —Allison McClain Merrill, Parents, 8 Apr. 2026

Fernandes has always been expressive on the field and at times appears frustrated, waving his arms around, and he has been criticised for these mannerisms by former United players who now work as pundits. —Chris McKenna, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2026

The Only Murders in the Building star previously addressed speculation about changes in her appearance and mannerisms, attributing the differences to her ongoing battle with lupus and her bipolar disorder diagnosis. —Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 2 Apr. 2026