custom
KUSS-tum
/ˈkʌs.təm/
A traditional and widely accepted way of behaving or doing something specific to a particular society, place, or time.
Focuses on established social practice and unwritten norms passed down through repetition.
The story behind the word. Originating from Latin 'consuetudo' (meaning habit or familiar usage), the word passed through Old French as 'custume'. It described social habits shared together by a community so repeatedly that they acquired the force of unwritten law.
Word relationships
- tradition: 'Tradition' implies deeper historical and spiritual significance passed down over generations, while 'custom' can refer to daily social habits.
- convention: 'Convention' implies agreed-upon social etiquette rather than deeply rooted heritage.
- innovation: 'Innovation' refers to novel, newly introduced practices that break away from past habit.
Commonly confused with
- habit: 'Habit' is an individual's repetitive personal behavior; 'custom' is a shared practice across a whole society.
Word family
- customary (adjective): According to the customs or usual practices of a society.
- customarily (adverb): In a customary manner; usually.
Collocations
- local custom
- ancient custom
- tribal custom
- observe a custom
Idioms & expressions
- customary practice
Example sentences
- "According to ancient tribal custom, guests are welcomed with symbolic ceremonial gifts." Anthropological field study
- "Understanding local social customs helps travelers show proper respect when visiting sacred sites." Cultural guide
Memory hook
A CUSTOM is what a whole COMMUNITY is ACCUSTOMED to doing. What people habitually do together.
When not to use
Do not confuse plural 'customs' (import taxes at national borders) with cultural traditions.
Fun facts
- In legal history, 'customary law' consists of unwritten practices that courts accept as legally binding because they have been practiced since time immemorial.
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