capricious

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Contents

English [edit]

Etymology [edit]

From French capricieux, from Italian capriccioso.

Adjective [edit]

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?"

Usage notes [edit]

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

Synonyms [edit]

Antonyms [edit]

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