whimsy

noun

whim·​sy ˈ(h)wim-zē 

variants or less commonly whimsey

plural whimsies also whimseys

1

: whim, caprice

2

: the quality or state of being whimsical or fanciful

the designer's new line showed a touch of whimsy

3

: a fanciful or fantastic device, object, or creation especially in writing or art

Synonyms of whimsy

• whim
• humor
• caprice

Examples of whimsy in a Sentence

The designer's new line showed a touch of whimsy.

a bit of decorative whimsy

Recent Examples on the Web

In a warm review for The Guardian, Peter Bradshaw cited its charming leads, and praised a certain whimsy in the filmmaking. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 27 July 2026

While fashion has a way of chasing the fountain of youth, Kate Spade might have a particular claim on the future consumer as its mix of whimsy and chic has a natural appeal for those moving into adulthood. — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

After all, a vacation should be anchored in open-minded whimsy and blissful R&R, much like trying out a divisive trend or relishing the effortless elegance of a breezy pair of pants. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 18 July 2026

The whimsy carries over to afternoon tea, served throughout the year in the hotel’s Pavilion and featuring fairytale and wondrous themes. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

irregular from whim-wham

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

whimsy

noun

whim·​sy

variants also whimsey

ˈhwim-zē 

ˈwim-

plural whimsies also whimseys

1

: whim, caprice

2

: the quality or state of being whimsical or fanciful

the designer's new line of swimwear showed a touch of whimsy

3

: an imaginative or fantastic object or creation especially in a piece of writing or art