an independent individual who does not conform to a group or norm
example
As a maverick in the tech industry, she often introduced innovative ideas that challenged conventional practices.
synonyms
nonconformistrebelindividualist
word origin — The term 'maverick' originates from Samuel Maverick, a 19th-century Texan rancher who refused to brand his cattle.
maverick, misanthrope, notoriety, anachronism, fluke: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 88. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
maverick · noun/ˈmævərɪk/
an independent individual who does not conform to a group or norm
As a maverick in the tech industry, she often introduced innovative ideas that challenged conventional practices.
Synonyms: nonconformist, rebel, individualist
Origin: The term 'maverick' originates from Samuel Maverick, a 19th-century Texan rancher who refused to brand his cattle.
misanthrope · noun/ˈmɪs.æn.θroʊp/
a person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society
Despite his wealth and achievements, he was known as a reclusive misanthrope who preferred the company of books to that of people.
Synonyms: cynic, recluse, loner
Origin: from the Greek 'misanthrōpos', meaning 'hating mankind', from 'misein' (to hate) + 'anthrōpos' (man)
notoriety · noun/noʊtəˈraɪəti/
the state of being famous or well known for some bad quality or deed
The criminal gained notoriety for his string of high-profile robberies.
Synonyms: infamy, disrepute, ill fame
Origin: from the Latin 'notorious', meaning 'well known', from 'notus', meaning 'known'.
anachronism · noun/əˈnækrəˌnɪzəm/
something that is out of its proper time period
The knight's use of a smartphone in the medieval film was a glaring anachronism that distracted viewers from the story.
Origin: from the Greek 'anachronismos', from 'ana-' meaning 'against' + 'chronos' meaning 'time'
fluke · noun/fluk/
an unlikely chance occurrence or event
Winning the lottery was a complete fluke, as I never buy tickets.
Synonyms: coincidence, accident, luck
Origin: The word 'fluke' originates from the early 19th century, possibly derived from the Old Norse word 'flóki', meaning 'a stroke or success by chance'.