Mannerisms

/ˈmænərɪzəmz/ noun

Definition

Distinctive, habitual ways of behaving or speaking that are characteristic of a particular person.

Etymology

From 'manner' (from Latin 'manuarius,' meaning 'manual' or 'related to the hand'), combined with '-ism' to mean a distinctive style or habit. It refers to the repeated, deliberate or unconscious ways someone does things.

Kelly Says

Mannerisms are like a person's behavioral fingerprint—some people always tilt their head when listening, others tap their fingers when thinking. Actors study mannerisms obsessively because perfect acting means copying them so well the audience completely believes they're someone else.

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