A state of being accustomed to something; a habit or customary practice that has become second nature.
From Latin 'assuetudo,' derived from 'assuescere' (to become accustomed). The suffix '-tude' (like in 'altitude' or 'gratitude') indicates a state or condition. This word means the settled state that results from assuefaction—the habit itself rather than the process of forming it.
In medieval philosophy, 'assuetude' was crucial to understanding virtue—Aquinas argued that virtue becomes real through assuetude, meaning you don't become good by one act but by repeated practice until goodness becomes your nature. It's why musicians and athletes emphasize 'muscle memory'—assuetude is literally changing who you are.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.