Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈfrɒlɪk/

Definitions

• 1. (verb) To play and move about cheerfully, excitedly, or energetically.
• 2. (verb) To engage in light-hearted, playful activity.
• 3. (noun) A playful or mischievous act or instance of fun.
• 4. (noun) An activity or event characterized by carefree enjoyment or amusement.

Usage Examples

• The children froliced in the meadow all afternoon, laughing and chasing each other.
• She couldn't resist joining in the frolic, spinning and twirling around with joy.
• The party was a frolic of laughter and fun, with everyone dancing late into the night.

Etymology

The word "frolic" is derived from the Middle Dutch word "vrolic," which means cheerful or merry. It evolved from the word "vrolic" in Dutch, meaning "merry" or "playful," influenced by Old French "frolic" from the 14th century, which was adopted into English around the 16th century.

Synonyms

• Play
• Romp
• Prance
• Dance
• Revel
• Skip

Antonyms

• Seriousness
• Gravitas
• Somberness
• Melancholy
• Restraint

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "frolic" is fairly consistent across different regions, though it may slightly vary depending on the accent. In British English, it tends to be pronounced more distinctly, with clear emphasis on both syllables, while in American English, the first syllable may be slightly less stressed.

Historical Usage

The word "frolic" has been used since the 16th century in English to describe playful behavior, especially in a cheerful or spirited manner. It was originally associated with carefree fun and light-hearted enjoyment, often used in the context of animal behavior, especially in the case of young animals playing or frolicking in nature.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, the concept of "frolic" is often tied to youthfulness, innocence, and the joy of spontaneous play. It is frequently used in literature and art to symbolize a carefree attitude or a return to simpler, joyful times. The notion of frolicking in nature has also been romanticized, especially in the arts and poetry, where it represents an escape from the constraints of society.

More Information

Frolic is often associated with moments of fun and enjoyment that involve physical activity. It is used to describe playful behavior, especially in social settings, such as parties, festivals, or games. Historically, frolics were often a way to release tension and foster social bonds, making it an essential part of many cultural celebrations. Today, the word is frequently used in both casual and literary contexts to describe moments of exuberance and joy.