Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kəˈprɪʃəs/

Definitions

• Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.
• Characterized by unpredictable or erratic behavior.
• Impulsive and whimsical in nature, subject to whims.

Usage Examples

• "Her capricious nature made it difficult to predict how she would react to any situation."
• "The weather in the mountains is often capricious, changing from clear skies to rain in a matter of minutes."
• "He was known for his capricious decisions, making choices on a whim without much thought."

Etymology

The word "capricious" comes from the Italian word "capriccioso," which is derived from "capriccio," meaning a whim or a fancy. The term "capriccio" is from the Latin "capra" (goat) and "caput" (head), symbolizing the unpredictable and erratic nature of goats, as they are known for sudden and erratic movements. The word has been in use in English since the 17th century to describe erratic or unpredictable behavior.

Synonyms

• Whimsical
• Unpredictable
• Fickle
• Erratic
• Impulsive

Antonyms

• Stable
• Consistent
• Predictable
• Rational
• Logical

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, it is pronounced /kəˈprɪʃəs/, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
• In British English, it may be pronounced with a softer "sh" sound, /kəˈprɪʃəs/.

Historical Usage

The term "capricious" has been in use since the 17th century, evolving from its original Italian use to describe whimsical or unpredictable behavior. It was initially applied to describe erratic artistic or musical compositions, later expanding to refer to people or things that were subject to sudden changes. By the 18th century, the term had become widely used in English literature to describe mood swings and impulsive behavior, often with a slightly negative connotation.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, the concept of capriciousness can hold different meanings. In some cultures, it is seen as a negative trait, indicating a lack of stability or reliability. In others, it can be viewed more positively, symbolizing creativity, spontaneity, or freedom. In art and literature, capricious behavior is often portrayed as a source of inspiration, leading to unpredictable yet often brilliant outcomes.

More Information

Capricious behavior is often associated with unpredictability and a lack of consistency, which can manifest in both emotional and intellectual contexts. In literature, it is used to describe characters who change their opinions, desires, or moods without warning, often leading to conflict or tension in the narrative. In other contexts, capriciousness can be seen as an expression of individual freedom, unrestrained by societal expectations. The term has also been applied to describe volatile market conditions, where trends can change rapidly and without explanation.