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Definition of capricious

capricious

/kəˈprɪʃ.əs/
ca · pri · cious
Adverb:capriciously
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capricious Lexical Profile

capricious Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood, opinion, or behavior; governed by whim rather than reason.

Example

"The tyrannical ruler was known for making capricious decisions that left his advisors in a constant state of anxiety."

2

Changing rapidly and unpredictably (especially of weather, markets, or natural forces).

Example

"Sailors along the rocky coast must remain vigilant because of the capricious spring winds."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for capricious

• Nearby Words

caprese
capri
caprice
capricious
capriciously
capriciousness
caprimulgid

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from French capricieux, from Italian capriccioso, derived from capriccio ('sudden start or whim'), originally from capo ('head') and riccio ('hedgehog'), literally describing hair standing on end from fright, later associated with Latin caper ('goat') and its playful, unpredictable leaps.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Capricious. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/capricious
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