Meaning & Definition of word "Habit"

Habit

/ˈhæbɪt/

noun:

  • 1. A regular practice or routine, often one that is hard to give up.
    • Example: She has a habit of procrastinating her assignments until the last minute.
  • 2. An acquired behavior pattern regularly followed until it has become almost involuntary.
    • Example: He developed a habit of jogging every morning for his health.
  • 3. A customary practice or tendency.
    • Example: His habit of reading before bed has improved his sleep quality.
  • 4. A behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur subconsciously.
    • Example: Biting nails is a common habit that many people struggle to break.
  • 5. An established routine or pattern of behavior.
    • Example: Good study habits can lead to better academic performance.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'habite', from Latin 'habitus' meaning 'condition, appearance, dress'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bad habit:

A negative pattern of behavior that is often hard to break.

have a habit of:

To frequently do something, especially something that has become routine.

break the habit:

To stop doing something that has become a regular practice.

Related Words

routine:

A regular course of procedure.

custom:

A traditional and widely accepted way of behaving or doing something.

tendency:

An inclination toward a particular characteristic or type of behavior.

Slang Meanings of habit

Meaning: Addiction

Example Sentence: He's got a real habit for gaming; he spends all his free time playing.

Meaning: Tick

Example Sentence: She has a habit of biting her nails when she’s nervous.