exotic
ig-ZOT-ik
/ɪɡˈzɒtɪk/
Originating in or characteristic of a distant foreign country; (of a pet) not native to the local environment and often unusual.
Carries a sense of being rare, striking, or unusual, in addition to simply being non-native.
The story behind the word. Comes from the Greek 'exotikos', meaning 'foreign' or 'from the outside' (derived from 'exo', meaning 'outside'). It entered English in the late 16th century to describe foreign customs, fashions, and plants.
Word relationships
- non-native: 'Non-native' is a neutral scientific term for any species outside its evolutionary range, whereas 'exotic' often implies a colorful, rare, or highly desirable quality.
- alien: 'Alien' is often used in ecology to describe invasive species that cause harm, while 'exotic' is more positive or neutral, often associated with the pet and plant trade.
- native: Native species naturally occur in a specific region without human intervention.
- domestic: Domestic animals have been selectively bred by humans over thousands of years (like dogs or cows).
Commonly confused with
- indigenous: Indigenous means originating naturally in a particular place, whereas exotic means originating from a foreign place.
Word family
- exoticism (noun): The quality of being exotic or unusual.
- exotically (adverb): In an exotic or unusual manner.
Collocations
- exotic pets
- exotic species
- exotic plants
- exotic veterinarian
Example sentences
- "The state has strict laws regarding the ownership of exotic reptiles like venomous snakes and large monitors." A news report on pet trade regulations.
- "The island was filled with exotic birds of brilliant plumage that we had never seen in Europe." A classic travel narrative describing tropical landscapes.
Memory hook
Think of 'exit' (to go out). An 'exotic' animal comes from 'outside' your country. From the outside world.
When not to use
Do not use for common domestic pets like standard dogs or cats, even if their breed originated elsewhere.
Fun facts
- In veterinary medicine, 'exotics' is a catch-all category that includes any pet that is not a dog, cat, or farm animal—meaning even a common guinea pig is technically classified as an exotic pet!
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.