'peculiarity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'peculiaris' derived from 'peculium', where 'pecu-' (from 'pecus') meant 'cattle' or 'private property'.

'peculiaris' (Late Latin) / 'peculiarite' (Old/Medieval French/Middle English forms) changed over time and became the modern English word 'peculiarity'.

Initially related to 'private property' or something 'belonging to an individual', it shifted to mean 'particular to an individual or thing' and later developed senses of 'distinctive' or 'odd characteristic' now reflected in 'peculiarity'.