capricious

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[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

From French capricieux, from Italian capriccioso.

[edit] Adjective

capricious (comparative more capricious, superlative most capricious)

  1. Impulsive and unpredictable; determined by chance, impulse, or whim
    I almost died in a capricious winter storm.
    Stringent rulers are unlikely to act capriciously.
    The Mayor claimed that the action was reasonable, but in reality the action was arbitrary and capricious in nature.
    • 1877, Henry James, The American:
      "Capricious?" And at this monsieur began to laugh. "Oh no, I'm not capricious. I am very faithful. I am very constant. Comprenez?"

[edit] Usage notes

  • Capricious can describe both a person and the decisions they make.

[edit] Synonyms

[edit] Derived terms

[edit] Related terms

[edit] Translations

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