Custom
'kʌstəm
Definitions
3 meaningsA practice or way of acting that is usual or expected in a given situation or society.
'kʌstəm
A traditional and widely accepted way of behaving or doing something that is specific to a particular society, place, or time.
It is the custom to give a gift when you visit someone's home.
💡 Simply: Imagine everyone in your neighborhood always celebrates the Fourth of July with fireworks. That's a custom!
👶 For kids: A custom is something that people always do, like a special way of celebrating a holiday.
More Examples
The old custom of bowing to greet people is still practiced in some countries.
How It's Used
"It is the custom in Japan to remove your shoes before entering a home."
"Customs are often used in court to determine the legality of an action."
The duties or taxes imposed on imports and exports.
'kʌstəmz
Official examination of merchandise or baggage.
The customs office is located at the airport.
💡 Simply: When you travel to another country, the customs is the place you go to get your bags checked to make sure you don't bring anything illegal.
👶 For kids: Customs is when grown-ups check your things at the airport to see if you're bringing any secret stuff.
More Examples
She had to pay customs duties on the imported items.
How It's Used
"The customs officials inspected the imported goods."
"Passengers must declare any items subject to customs duties."
Made or done according to the specifications of an individual.
'kʌstəm
Made or done to order.
He had a custom suit made by a tailor.
💡 Simply: If you order a custom cake, it will be decorated exactly how you want it, instead of just buying one off the shelf.
👶 For kids: Custom means made just for you, like a toy that's built just the way you like it.
More Examples
The car has a custom paint job.
How It's Used
"We offer custom software solutions to meet specific client needs."
"She designed a custom wedding dress."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
custom house
A building or office where customs duties are collected.
"The ships docked near the custom house."
go through customs
To have your luggage and/or goods inspected by customs officials.
"We had to go through customs after landing at the airport."
From Middle English custume, from Old French costume, from Latin consuetudo ('habit, custom'), from consuescere ('to accustom').
The word 'custom' has been used since the 13th century, initially referring to a tax or duty, later evolving to encompass established practices.
Memory tip
Think of a tradition you *must* follow.
Word Origin
"consuetudo - habit, custom"