mannerism
mannerism / mannerism
Noun
pl: mannerisms
This term describes a distinctive, often unconscious physical or verbal habit that becomes a signature of an individual. It carries a neutral to slightly critical connotation, as it often implies a repetitive action that may be distracting or idiosyncratic. In an artistic context, the word refers to a deliberate style characterized by artificiality or exaggeration. This usage specifically evokes the Mannerist period of art, where proportions were distorted for emotional or aesthetic effect rather than realism.
Meanings
Nounmannerism
A distinctive habit or way of speaking or behaving that is characteristic of a particular person.
"He has a peculiar mannerism of tapping his nose when he is nervous."