mercurial
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /mɜːrˈkjʊəriəl/
KK: /mɚˈkjʊrɪəl/
adjective
Definition
Describing someone or something that is quick to change in mood or behavior; often unpredictable or lively.
Example
Her mercurial temperament made it difficult to know how she would react to any situation.
Conversation
Have you noticed how mercurial Jenna's mood can be sometimes?
Yeah, one moment she's super excited, and the next she’s all quiet.
I guess that's just her mercurial nature; it keeps things interesting.
True! It definitely makes every day a little unpredictable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
volatile
fickle
changeable
Antonyms
stable
constant
predictable
noun
Definition
A substance or preparation that contains mercury, often used in medical or chemical contexts.
Example
The doctor prescribed a mercurial treatment for the patient's condition.
Conversation
I heard that some medicines used to contain mercurial ingredients.
Yeah, I read that too, but they're not safe anymore.
It's crazy how much we've learned about chemistry over the years.
Root Explanation
Mercurial is derived from "Mercurius" (the Latin name for Mercury, the Roman god of commerce, communication, and travelers) and the suffix "-ial" (meaning relating to). The word describes something that is related to or characteristic of Mercury, often implying quickness, unpredictability, or changeability, much like the god's attributes.
Memory Tip
Think of Mercury, the god known for his speed and unpredictability, to remember that 'mercurial' describes something that is quick and changeable.
Visually Confused Words
unmercurial
merril
extracurial
curial