Weird or Wierd
Which Spelling is Correct?
Confused between "weird" and "wierd"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
Incorrect: Wierd
"Wierd" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "weird" with "ei" not "ie".
Correct: Weird
"Weird" is the correct spelling. It means strange, unusual, or supernatural in nature.
Summary
Weird is the correct spelling. It is an adjective meaning strange, unusual, or supernatural in nature.
Wierd is incorrect and should never be used in formal writing.
Definition
Weird (adjective)
Suggesting something supernatural or uncanny; strange or unusual in a way that is unsettling or mysterious.
Usage
Used to describe something that is strange, unusual, or difficult to explain.
Examples
Correct: "That was a weird dream I had last night."
Correct: "She has a weird sense of humor."
Correct: "The weather has been weird lately."
Incorrect: "That was a wierd dream I had last night" (should be "weird")
Synonyms
For strange:
- • Strange
- • Unusual
- • Peculiar
- • Odd
- • Bizarre
For supernatural:
- • Supernatural
- • Uncanny
- • Mysterious
- • Eerie
- • Spooky
Notes:
- • "Weird" is spelled with "ei" not "ie"
- • This is an exception to the "i before e except after c" rule
- • The word comes from Old English "wyrd" meaning "fate" or "destiny"
- • Often used in informal contexts to describe strange situations
- • Can be used as both an adjective and informally as a noun
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "wierd" ever correct?
No, "wierd" is never correct. The correct spelling is always "weird" with "ei" not "ie".
How do you pronounce "weird"?
It's pronounced as "WEERD" with the stress on the first syllable.
What's the difference between "weird" and "wierd"?
"Weird" is the correct spelling meaning strange or unusual, while "wierd" is simply a misspelling that should never be used.
Does "weird" follow the "i before e" rule?
No, "weird" is an exception to the "i before e except after c" rule. It uses "ei" instead of "ie".
Is it common to misspell "weird"?
Yes, many people incorrectly spell it as "wierd", possibly because they follow the "i before e" rule. This is a very common spelling mistake.
Final Summary
Weird is the correct spelling. It is an adjective meaning strange, unusual, or supernatural in nature.
Wierd is always incorrect. Remember that "weird" is an exception to the "i before e" rule and uses "ei".