Synonyms of whim

whim

noun

ˈ(h)wim 

as in notion

a sudden impulsive and apparently unmotivated idea or action

on a whim, we stopped at the roadside stand to get ice cream

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonym Chooser

How is the word whim distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of whim are caprice, crotchet, and vagary. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

Where would caprice be a reasonable alternative to whim?

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

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When can crotchet be used instead of whim?

The words crotchet and whim are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

When would vagary be a good substitute for whim?

The meanings of vagary and whim largely overlap; however, vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of whim

With eight expiring contracts on their books, they were bound to see this volume of turnover — either under their control at the deadline or at the whims of players over the summer. —Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 7 Feb. 2026

The island nation, vulnerable to the whims of the Atlantic, has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Danish firm Wavepiston to turn those crashing swells into a 50 MW power source. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 5 Feb. 2026

In contrast, executive orders are the whims of a single person. —Abby McCloskey, Twin Cities, 5 Feb. 2026

Both leagues were at the whim of the city, its quickness, and willingness to pay for the repairs. —Sam Blum, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026