Langimage
English

customs

|cus/toms|

B1

/ˈkʌstəmz/

(custom)

habitual practice

Base FormPluralAdjective
customcustomscustomary
Etymology
Etymology Information

'custom' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'consuetudo,' where 'consuetus' meant 'accustomed.'

Historical Evolution

'consuetudo' transformed into the Old French word 'costume,' and eventually became the modern English word 'custom' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'habit or practice,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

duties or taxes imposed on imported and, less commonly, exported goods.

The customs on imported electronics can be quite high.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the official department that administers and collects the duties levied by a government on imported goods.

She was stopped by customs for a routine check.

Synonyms

Noun 3

the habitual practices or usual ways of behaving in a particular society, place, or time.

It's a custom to remove your shoes before entering a Japanese home.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35