Synonyms of vagary

vagary

noun

ˈvā-gə-rē 

as in whim

a sudden impulsive and apparently unmotivated idea or action

the vagaries of a rather eccentric, elderly lady

Synonyms & Similar Words

• whim
• notion
• whimsy
• caprice
• vagrancy
• fancy
• megrim
• impression
• bee
• maggot
• kink
• humor
• capriciousness
• fantasy
• freak
• bee in one's bonnet
• fancifulness
• thought
• crank
• whimsicality
• image
• freakishness
• concept
• conception
• conceit
• impetuosity
• picture
• inspiration
• brainstorm
• mind's eye

Synonym Chooser

How is the word vagary distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of vagary are caprice, crotchet, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

When could caprice be used to replace vagary?

While in some cases nearly identical to vagary, caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When can crotchet be used instead of vagary?

The words crotchet and vagary can be used in similar contexts, but crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

Where would whim be a reasonable alternative to vagary?

While the synonyms whim and vagary are close in meaning, whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vagary

Fans at the Club World Cup also suffered from the heat, thunderstorms, and the vagaries of FIFA’s dynamic ticket pricing, whereby prices rise and fall according to demand. — Sam Knight, New Yorker, 1 June 2026

As well as the vagaries of the wind, there’s a strong current flowing through the Hudson, sometimes as much as three knots. — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 26 May 2026

The vagaries of the Civil War are also hard to intuit at times. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 22 May 2026

Born around 1640, Bembo and her opera remained obscure for centuries, due to the vagaries of her music manuscripts and the historical neglect of women composers. — Claire Fontijn, The Conversation, 18 May 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!