Prabh 4

Prabh Saini

5 hours ago

Vocabulary Spotlight: Eclectic

Vocabulary Spotlight

Eclectic

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.

"Her musical tastes are eclectic, ranging from classical to hip-hop."

Pronunciation

[ih-klek-tik]

Related Words

Synonyms

Diverse Varied Assorted Heterogeneous Multifaceted

Antonyms

Narrow Limited Restricted Homogeneous Uniform

Related Words

Eclecticism (noun) Eclectically (adverb) Eclectic-minded (adjective)

Word Origin

The word "eclectic" comes from the Greek word "eklektikos", meaning "selective".

It's derived from "eklegein", which means "to select" or "to choose out".

The term entered the English language in the 17th century.

Usage Examples

1. The restaurant's eclectic menu features dishes from various international cuisines.

2. The professor's eclectic approach to teaching draws from multiple educational philosophies.

3. The art gallery showcased an eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures, and digital art.

4. Her eclectic taste in literature spans from ancient classics to modern science fiction.

Industry-specific Usage

Art and Design

In art and design, an eclectic style combines elements from various periods, styles, or sources to create a unique aesthetic.

Architecture

Eclectic architecture blends features from different historical styles, creating buildings with diverse design elements.

Music

An eclectic musician or composer draws inspiration from various genres and traditions to create a distinctive sound.

Mnemonics

Every Collector Loves Exploring Cool Treasures In Collections

This mnemonic helps remember that eclectic refers to a diverse collection or a wide range of sources.

In Context

In the world of arts and culture, being eclectic is often seen as a positive trait. It suggests a broad-minded approach and a willingness to appreciate and incorporate diverse influences. For example, an eclectic music festival might feature genres ranging from classical to electronic, appealing to a wide audience and showcasing the richness of musical diversity.

Flip Card

What does "Eclectic" mean?

Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.

Challenge Your Vocab Prowess

1. What is the antonym of "Eclectic"?

Diverse

'Diverse' is actually a synonym of 'eclectic', not an antonym. It means having variety or showing differences.

Varied

'Varied' is similar to 'diverse' and is also a synonym of 'eclectic'. It means having different forms or types.

Narrow

'Narrow' is the correct antonym. It means limited in scope or confined to a specific area, which is opposite to the broad, diverse nature of 'eclectic'.

Broad

'Broad' is actually similar in meaning to 'eclectic'. It means covering a wide scope, which aligns with the diverse nature of 'eclectic'.

Fill in the Blank

2. The art gallery's _______ collection featured works from various periods and styles.

eclectic

'Eclectic' is the correct word here, as it describes a collection that includes a wide variety of styles and periods.

homogeneous

'Homogeneous' means uniform or similar throughout, which is the opposite of what the sentence implies.

uniform

'Uniform' suggests consistency and lack of variation, which contradicts the idea of "various periods and styles".

consistent

'Consistent' implies a lack of variation, which doesn't fit with the description of "various periods and styles".

Synonym Question

3. Which word is the closest synonym to "Eclectic"?

Diverse

'Diverse' is the closest synonym to 'eclectic', as it also implies variety and differences.

Uniform

'Uniform' is actually an antonym of 'eclectic', as it implies consistency rather than variety.

Singular

'Singular' means unique or exceptional, which doesn't capture the diverse nature of 'eclectic'.

Monotonous

'Monotonous' means lacking in variety, which is the opposite of 'eclectic'.

Usage in Context

4. Which sentence uses "Eclectic" correctly?

The bookstore's eclectic selection included everything from classic novels to modern cookbooks.

This sentence correctly uses 'eclectic' to describe a diverse range of book types.

The eclectic color of the wall was a bright shade of blue.

This usage is incorrect as 'eclectic' refers to a mixture or variety, not a single color.

Her eclectic personality made her very predictable and boring.

This is incorrect as 'eclectic' implies variety and interest, not predictability or boredom.

The restaurant served an eclectic dish of spaghetti and meatballs.

This usage is incorrect as a single dish wouldn't be described as 'eclectic'. The term would apply to a menu with various types of cuisine.

Word Formation

5. What is the noun form of "Eclectic"?

Eclecticism

'Eclecticism' is the correct noun form of 'eclectic'.

Eclecticity

'Eclecticity' is not a correct word formation.

Eclecticness

'Eclecticness' is not the standard noun form, although it might be used informally.

Eclection

'Eclection' is not a correct word formation.

Sentence Completion

6. The professor's _______ approach to teaching incorporated methods from various educational philosophies.

eclectic

'Eclectic' is correct here, as it describes an approach that draws from various sources or methods.

electric

'Electric' is incorrect. It refers to electricity and is not related to teaching methods.

eccentric

'Eccentric' means unconventional or slightly strange, which doesn't fit the context of incorporating various teaching methods.

elastic

'Elastic' means flexible or adaptable, but it doesn't capture the idea of drawing from various sources like 'eclectic' does.