quaint
Quaint (adjective) means Attractively unusual or old-fashioned, especially in a charming way. Example: “The village was full of quaint cottages and cobbled streets.”
How to use quaint
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCharmingly old-fashioned or unusual, in a pleasant way rather than a negative one.
Not simply "old" or "outdated" — quaint always carries a positive, charmed tone.
Word forms
quainter comparative, quaints plural, quaintest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The village was full of _____ cottages and cobbled streets.
Etymology
From Old French cointe ("clever, elegant"), from Latin cognitus ("known"); the meaning shifted over centuries from "clever" to "curiously old-fashioned but charming."
Rhymes for quaint
See all rhymes for quaint →Frequently asked questions
What does “quaint” mean?
The word “quaint” means attractively unusual or old-fashioned, especially in a charming way. In plain terms, charmingly old-fashioned or unusual, in a pleasant way rather than a negative one.
How do you pronounce “quaint”?
“Quaint” is pronounced kwaynt (/kweɪnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “quaint” in a sentence?
Here is “quaint” used in a sentence: “The village was full of quaint cottages and cobbled streets.”
What part of speech is “quaint”?
“Quaint” is an adjective.
Where does the word “quaint” come from?
The word “quaint” comes from Latin. From Old French cointe ("clever, elegant"), from Latin cognitus ("known"); the meaning shifted over centuries from "clever" to "curiously old-fashioned but charming.".
Is “quaint” a common word?
“Quaint” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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