Some common synonyms of unique are eccentric, erratic, odd, outlandish, peculiar, quaint, singular, and strange. While all these words mean "departing from what is ordinary, usual, or to be expected," unique implies singularity and the fact of being without a known parallel.

// a career unique in the annals of science

The words odd and unique are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, odd applies to a departure from the regular or expected.

// an odd sense of humor

Although the words quaint and unique have much in common, quaint suggests an old-fashioned but pleasant oddness.

// a quaint fishing village