From Middle English queynte or cointe, from Anglo-French forms meaning clever or expert, ultimately from Latin cognitus, known. The modern sense shifted toward unusual, curious, and pleasantly old-fashioned.
From Middle English queynte or cointe, from Anglo-French forms meaning clever or expert, ultimately from Latin cognitus, known. The modern sense shifted toward unusual, curious, and pleasantly old-fashioned.
What does quaint mean?
Quaint means attractively old-fashioned or unusual, and sometimes oddly outdated.
Is quaint positive or negative?
Quaint can be positive for charming places or objects, but it can be mildly negative for outdated ideas.
What is a quaint village?
A quaint village is a village that feels charming, old-fashioned, and picturesque.
Can quaint mean strange?
Yes. Quaint can mean unusual or strange, especially when something feels old-fashioned.
Where does quaint come from?
Quaint comes through Middle English and Anglo-French from a Latin root connected with knowing or being skilled.