Meaning & Definition of word "Habit"

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    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.