ETYM Old Eng. habit, abit, French habit from Latin habitus state, appearance, dress, from habere to have, be in a condition; prob. akin to Eng. have. Related to Have, Able, Binnacle, Debt, Due, Exhibit, Malady/.
1. A distinctive attire (as the costume of a religious order).
2. A pattern of behavior acquired through frequent repetition; SYN. use, wont.
3. An established custom; SYN. wont.