habitus

[ hab-i-tuhs ]

noun

, plural hab·i·tus.

1. the physical characteristics of a person, especially appearance and constitution as related to disease.

habitus

/ ˈhæbɪtəs /

noun

1. med general physical state, esp with regard to susceptibility to disease
2. tendency or inclination, esp of plant or animal growth; habit

Word History and Origins

Origin of habitus¹

1885–90; < New Latin, Latin; habit ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of habitus¹

C19: from Latin: state, habit

Example Sentences

At the Washington Post, Michele Norris, who is a friend of Michelle Obama, reflects on how the First Lady’s speech, habitus, and gifted insights are channeled through her experiences as a Black woman.

From Salon

The Mackey family habitus is characterized by great pride in hard work, and a healthy skepticism of cushy lifestyles and anyone without calluses on their hands.

From Seattle Times

For too many people who have huge libraries, the whole project is one of social signaling and bourgeois habitus.

From Salon

The men claim that negative externalities of “white habitus” formed at farmers’ markets can be managed through “inclusive steps that balance new initiatives and neighborhood stability to make cities ‘just green enough.’”

From Washington Times

“Courage is a habitus, a habit, a virtue: You get it by courageous acts,” she writes.

From The Guardian