In popular usage,
eccentricity (also called
quirkiness) refers to unusual or odd
behavior on the part of an individual. This behavior would typically be perceived as unusual or unnecessary, without being demonstrably
maladaptive. Eccentricity is contrasted with "
normal" behavior, the nearly universal means by which individuals in society solve given problems and pursue certain priorities in everyday life. People who consistently display benignly eccentric behavior are labeled as "eccentrics".