Eclectic
ih-KLEK-tik
/ɪˈklɛktɪk/
Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
Implies deliberate, tasteful curation from contrasting eras, cultures, or aesthetics rather than random messiness.
The story behind the word. In ancient Greece, 'eklektikoi' were philosophers who refused to join any single philosophical school (like Stoicism or Epicureanism). Instead, they selected the best doctrines from each system. The term entered English in the 17th century and expanded to fashion and art to describe curated combinations of diverse styles.
Word relationships
- diverse: Diverse simply means varied; eclectic emphasizes selective combination into a unified personal aesthetic.
- variegated: Variegated usually describes physical colors and patterns, whereas eclectic describes selected ideas or styles.
- uniform: Uniform means identical and homogenous throughout.
- monolithic: Monolithic describes a singular, unvarying rigid structure or style.
Commonly confused with
- Erratic: Erratic means unpredictable or chaotic, while eclectic implies intentional and thoughtful selection from diverse sources.
Word family
- eclecticism (noun): The practice of selecting from varied sources.
Collocations
- eclectic mix
- eclectic style
- eclectic taste
- decidedly eclectic
Example sentences
- "Her eclectic wardrobe seamlessly paired Victorian lace collars with modern distressed denim and combat boots." Fashion Review
- "The living room displayed an eclectic mix of Mid-Century furniture, African masks, and Japanese ceramic art." Interior Design
Memory hook
ECLECTIC: SELECT-i-c; you SELECT the best parts from everywhere. Selected tastefully from diverse worlds.
When not to use
Avoid using for something uniform, monotonous, or strictly adhering to a single rigid style.
Fun facts
- In architecture, the 'Eclectic Movement' of the late 19th century created iconic buildings combining Gothic towers, Renaissance arches, and Classical pillars in one structure.
Related words
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