Langimage
English

whimsically

|whim/si/cal/ly|

C1

/ˈwɪm.zɪ.kəl.i/

(whimsical)

playfully fanciful

Base FormNounAdverb
whimsicalwhimsywhimsically
Etymology
Etymology Information

'whimsical' originates from the English word 'whimsy,' which is derived from the word 'whim,' meaning a sudden or capricious idea.

Historical Evolution

'whimsy' evolved from the Middle English word 'whimwham,' which referred to a fanciful object or idea.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a fanciful or odd notion,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'playful or fanciful behavior.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is playful or fanciful, often in an amusing or unpredictable way.

She whimsically decided to paint her room bright pink.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45