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

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

Since opening the store last summer, Pot+Pan’s executive chef, Tara Cannaday, has reinvented the role of Willy Wonka, leaning into the power of whimsy to speak to customers who might not otherwise feel welcome in a more traditional dispensary setting. —Oset Babür-Winter, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 Dec. 2025

The blouse is considered a capsule wardrobe essential, according to personal stylist Samantha Dawn, and Pfeiffer’s version elevates its classic charm with a statement ruffle collar that really speaks to the whimsy of the holiday season. —Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 4 Dec. 2025

Here's how this bright shade can add a touch of whimsy to your home. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Dec. 2025

Lace collars on puffer jackets, grandma-chic balaclavas, ornate crochet, and heritage Fair Isle knits bring a sense of whimsy without feeling too precious. —Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Glamour, 3 Dec. 2025

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