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
  • While mega oil and gas companies pay for some of the greatest intelligence in the world, even the world's greatest intelligence gatherers are subject to the whims of rogues with missile launchers.
    — Brian Sullivan, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026
  • 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
Definition of whim
Noun
  • Some participants appreciate the light-hearted and good-natured humor, expressing gratitude and finding it timely and amusing.
    — Edith Pritchett, Washington Post, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Noah’s warmth, humor and unwavering support for Joanne drew me back into the character’s world, even if my feelings about Brody’s public statements remained unchanged.
    — Yael Buechler, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of humor
Noun
  • Ye-ji has a hunky hedge-fund-type husband, Sang-woo (Zo In-sung), who condescendingly tolerates, but doesn’t finance, his wife’s cinematic caprices.
    — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026
  • 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
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 25 Oct. 2026.

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