capricious

EtymologyEdit

From French capricieux, from Italian capriccioso.

AdjectiveEdit

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 notesEdit

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

SynonymsEdit

• whimsical
• arbitrary

AntonymsEdit

• conscientious
• rigorous

Derived termsEdit

• capriciously

Related termsEdit

• caprice

TranslationsEdit