Langimage
English

vicarious

|vi-car-i-ous|

C1

🇺🇸

/vaɪˈkɛriəs/

🇬🇧

/vɪˈkeəriəs/

experienced through another

Etymology
Etymology Information

'vicarious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'vicarius,' where 'vicis' meant 'change' or 'alternation.'

Historical Evolution

'vicarius' transformed into the English word 'vicarious' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'substitute' or 'deputy,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'experienced through another.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person.

She felt a vicarious thrill watching her friend skydive.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45