Mannerisms, part 2

Mannerisms are defined on Dictionary.com as “a habitual or characteristic manner, mode, or way of doing something; distinctive quality or style” or “marked or excessive adherence to an unusual or a particular manner, esp. if affected.” They are how people show emotions, such as a tendency to sigh loudly when aggravated or where they always go to think or cry. Mannerisms cover everything from how a person eats to how they speak, even how they greet another person. Some people wave, others merely smile in passing. You may notice that many people have a standard way of greeting people. Most people they will greet with a firm handshake but they may hug close family members or greet them in an established way such as a family handshake or something they came up with as kids. The handshake or hug are common mannerisms, any other greetings will likely need explanation which could add some memories to the story and give the character more depth. Just remember when you think up mannerisms for your character to be sure they fit with the character. A super shy girl is unlikely to greet everyone with a big hug and a New Yorker is unlikely speak in a Boston accent.