Definition

A sudden and unpredictable change in behavior or action, often without a clear reason.

Example

Her decision to move to another city was a caprice that surprised everyone.

Conversation

Did you see how the weather changed so suddenly today?

Yeah, it was like a caprice of nature!

I know, right? One moment it was sunny and the next it was pouring rain.

Exactly! It's unpredictable like that sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Caprice originates from the Italian word 'capriccio', which is derived from 'capra' (meaning goat) and 'riccio' (meaning hedgehog). The term originally referred to a sudden change in mood or behavior, likening it to the unpredictable nature of a goat's movements and the prickly nature of a hedgehog.

Memory Tip

Imagine a goat that suddenly changes direction, just like a caprice represents a sudden change in mood or behavior.

Visually Confused Words