habitus
UK[ˈhæbɪtəs]US[ˈhæbɪtəs]
n
the physical and constitutional characteristics of a person, especially as related to their tendency to develop certain diseases.
n
a set of acquired patterns of thought, behavior, and taste that shape an individual's perceptions and actions.
Etymology
the word 'habitus' is a direct borrowing from latin, where it meant 'condition, state, appearance, dress'. the latin term itself derives from the verb 'habere', meaning 'to have, hold, possess, keep'. this connection illustrates how one's external state or condition is something 'held' or possessed. in medieval latin, the term was used in philosophical and medical contexts to denote bodily constitution. this specialized meaning was adopted into english scientific and sociological vocabularies, where it evolved to signify both a bodily predisposition and, following the work of sociologist pierre bourdieu, a system of ingrained social dispositions that structure an individual's practices and perceptions.
Analysis
the word is a direct loanword from latin and functions as a simplex noun in english. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable english morphemes.
Examples
the doctor noted the patient's asthenic habitus as a potential factor.
his working-class habitus influenced his tastes in art and music.
the concept of habitus helps explain how social structures become embodied in individuals.