quaint
/kweɪnt/
ADJECTIVE
1. Attractively old-fashioned
Having an appealing charm because of being unusual, traditional, or reminiscent of an earlier period.
1.1. Buildings and places
Describes places, buildings, villages, or streets that possess an appealing old-fashioned, picturesque, or traditional character.
Synonyms
- picturesque
- charming
- charmingly old-fashioned
- old-fashioned
- rustic
- storybook
- idyllic
- scenic
Antonyms
- modern
- contemporary
- urban
- unpicturesque
Examples
- We stayed in a quaint cottage overlooking the countryside.
- The town is known for its quaint streets and historic buildings.
- They visited a quaint seaside village during their holiday.
Related Words
- architecture
- cottage
- village
- countryside
- heritage
- traditional
1.2. Customs and traditions
Describes customs, habits, or practices that seem charmingly traditional or characteristic of an earlier time.
Synonyms
- traditional
- old-fashioned
- time-honored
- antique
- archaic
- old-time
Antonyms
- modern
- contemporary
- progressive
- innovative
Examples
- The village still follows several quaint customs passed down through generations.
- Visitors enjoyed the quaint traditions of the small community.
Related Words
- custom
- tradition
- heritage
- convention
- folklore
- ceremony
1.3. Objects and styles
Describes objects, decorations, or designs that have an appealing charm associated with an unusual or old-fashioned style.
Synonyms
- antique
- vintage
- old-fashioned
- rustic
- picturesque
- charming
Antonyms
- modern
- contemporary
- fashionable
- trendy
Examples
- The shop sells quaint vintage furniture and handmade decorations.
- She decorated the room with quaint antique objects.
Related Words
ADJECTIVE
2. Strange or unusual in an interesting way
Unusual, peculiar, or different from what is normally expected, often in an amusing, interesting, or charming manner.
2.1. Unusual appearance or character
Describes something that is noticeably different, peculiar, or uncommon in a way that attracts attention or interest.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- ordinary
- common
- usual
- normal
- conventional
- typical
Examples
- The artist has a quaint way of combining colors and shapes.
- His quaint sense of humor made everyone smile.
- The little shop had a quaint appearance that attracted curious visitors.
Related Words
- uniqueness
- individuality
- eccentricity
- oddity
- unconventional
- originality
2.2. Whimsical or amusing qualities
Describes something fanciful, playful, or gently odd in a way that creates amusement or affection.
Synonyms
- whimsical
- fanciful
- quirky
- droll
- amusing
- eccentric
- idiosyncratic
Antonyms
- serious
- conventional
- ordinary
- predictable
Examples
- The author filled the story with quaint characters and whimsical situations.
- Her quaint remarks gave the formal gathering a lighter atmosphere.
Related Words
- humor
- fantasy
- playfulness
- imagination
- eccentricity
- wit
ADJECTIVE
3. Outdated or old-fashioned in a disapproving sense
Unacceptably old-fashioned, outdated, or strange because it reflects ideas, opinions, or attitudes that no longer seem appropriate or relevant.
3.1. Outdated ideas and beliefs
Used critically or sarcastically to describe opinions, beliefs, or attitudes that seem old-fashioned, unreasonable, or disconnected from modern thinking.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- modern
- progressive
- contemporary
- forward-thinking
- up-to-date
Examples
- She dismissed his quaint ideas about women's roles as outdated.
- The proposal seemed quaint in an age of rapid technological change.
- What a quaint notion that everyone should follow the same career path.
Related Words
- attitude
- ideology
- belief
- convention
- tradition
- conservatism
ADJECTIVE
4. Skillfully or elegantly fashioned
Characterized by clever design, refined craftsmanship, or delicate and ingenious workmanship; an older or obsolete sense.
4.1. Clever design and craftsmanship
An obsolete or historical use describing something skillfully made, ingeniously designed, or finely crafted.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- clumsy
- inelegant
- crude
- unskillful
Examples
- The old poem was admired for its quaint and ingenious construction.
Related Words
- craftsmanship
- ingenuity
- artistry
- design
- finesse
- workmanship