whimsy

noun

ˈ(h)wim-zē How to pronounce whimsy (audio)
variants also whimsey
Definition of whimsynext
as in whim
a sudden impulsive and apparently unmotivated idea or action the pop singer's latest whimsy is that she has acting talent

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of whimsy A bit of fishing-village whimsy intertwined with underwater kaiju action? — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 6 Oct. 2026 Other Ways to Make Disney Magic Disney is a magical place—full of whimsy, wonder, and excitement. — Kimberly Zapata, Parents, 27 Sep. 2026 Fall also brings a seasonal dose of whimsy to downtown West Jefferson. — Kristy Tolley, Travel + Leisure, 26 Sep. 2026 The varying shapes and sizes give the manicure a whimsy, almost candy-like finish that catches the light from every angle. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for whimsy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for whimsy
  1. whim
  2. humor
  3. caprice
Noun
  • From here on out, the authorship of Tae-ju’s life is ambiguous, as well as constantly in flux, buffeted by the whims and suggestions of others, as well as by her own impulses.
    — Guy Lodge, Variety, 14 Oct. 2026
  • But elevating the whims of progressive activists and government bureaucrats above the wisdom of the marketplace has proven a costly mistake and undermined consumer choice.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of whim
Noun
  • The event, known for its blend of philanthropy, politics and humor, also featured comedian Jim Gaffigan, who poked fun at the influential crowd gathered in the ballroom.
    — Dick Brennan, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Cora Frazier has contributed humor writing to The New Yorker since 2012.
    — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of humor
Noun
  • But Gurdon doesn’t hold up the caprices and improvisations of her childhood as either a model or a cautionary tale.
    — Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Oct. 2026
  • We are subjected daily to the caprices of a mind both unregulated and amoral.
    — David Remnick, New Yorker, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of caprice

Browse Nearby Words

whimsies
whimsy
whim-whams
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Cite this Entry

“Whimsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whimsy. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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