exotic
ig-ZOT-ik
/ɪɡˈzɒtɪk/
Originating in or characteristic of a distant foreign country; strikingly strange or unusual.
In travel, it suggests something exciting, colorful, and different from one's home environment.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'exotikos,' meaning 'foreign' or 'from the outside.' It originally referred to anything that came from outside the borders of Greece.
Word relationships
- foreign: Foreign simply means from another country; exotic implies that the foreign thing is also unusual or exciting.
- domestic: Relating to one's own country or home.
- ordinary: Common or usual, lacking the excitement of the exotic.
Commonly confused with
- erotic: Erotic relates to sexual desire; exotic relates to foreign or unusual origins. Do not swap these!
Word family
- exoticism (noun): The quality of being exotic.
Collocations
- exotic location
- exotic fruit
- exotic pet
Example sentences
- "They wanted an exotic location for their honeymoon, so they chose a remote island in the South Pacific." Choosing a honeymoon spot.
- "The garden was filled with exotic plants that few people in England had ever seen." Describing something unusual.
Memory hook
Something 'exotic' comes from 'exterior' (outside) places. From the outside world.
When not to use
Be careful when describing people as 'exotic,' as it can sometimes be seen as 'othering' or insensitive; stick to places, foods, and plants.
Fun facts
- In the 1600s, 'exotic' was used to describe people who were not members of the Christian church.
Related words
Also appears in
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