Deviant
/ˈdiːviənt/
Definitions
2 meaningsDeparting from what is considered normal or acceptable, especially in social or sexual context.
/ˈdiːviənt/
Departing from usual or accepted standards, especially in social or sexual behavior.
His deviant behavior caused concern among his peers.
💡 Simply: Imagine everyone likes pizza, but you suddenly love pickles on your pizza. You're being a little 'deviant' when it comes to pizza preferences!
👶 For kids: Being different from what's normal or what most people do.
More Examples
The article discussed deviant social practices in ancient cultures.
The police investigated the suspect's deviant acts.
How It's Used
"The study focused on deviant behavior within the prison system."
"The therapist observed the patient's deviant thought patterns."
A person or thing that differs from an accepted norm, especially a person whose behavior is socially unacceptable.
/ˈdiːviənt/
A person whose behavior differs from accepted social norms.
The group aimed to understand the root causes of the deviant's actions.
💡 Simply: Someone who goes against the rules or what's expected of them, like a student who always skips class. They are considered a 'deviant' from the school's norms!
👶 For kids: Someone who does things that most people think are wrong or strange.
More Examples
The sociologist studied the societal factors that contribute to the marginalization of deviants.
In many societies, deviants are often ostracized.
How It's Used
"The study examined how society labels and treats deviants."
"The defendant was accused of being a deviant and a threat to society."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *dēviāns*, present participle of *dēviāre* 'to turn aside', from *dē-* 'away' + *via* 'road'.
Historically, the term 'deviant' has been used in criminology and sociology to describe those who violate social norms, often with negative connotations.
Memory tip
Think of a 'divergent' path – something that goes off the accepted route is DEVIANT.
Word Origin
"to turn aside, stray"