Definition

A playful or unusual quality that is often imaginative or fanciful.

Example

The artist's work is full of whimsy, featuring colorful characters and dreamlike landscapes.

Conversation

I just finished reading a book full of whimsy and adventure.

That sounds fun! I love stories that take you to a different world.

Yeah, the author's imagination was incredible; it was all about magical creatures.

I enjoy that kind of creativity — it adds a nice touch of whimsy to the story.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Whimsy originates from the word 'whim' (from Middle English 'whimse', meaning a caprice or a sudden fancy) and the suffix '-sy' (indicating a state or quality). The word 'whimsy' refers to the quality of being fanciful or capricious, often in a playful or amusing way.

Memory Tip

Think of a sudden 'fancy' or 'caprice' when you hear 'whimsy' — it describes a playful or fanciful quality.

Visually Confused Words