Fickle Meaning and Definition
Fickle
Pronunciation
/ˈfɪkəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Fickle is an adjective that means changeable or unreliable in one’s emotions, affections, or loyalties, often in a way that is annoying or frustrating.
Examples
- She’s been known to be quite fickle when it comes to her romantic relationships.
- He’s a fickle friend who only shows up when it’s convenient for him.
Synonyms
- Changeable
- Inconsistent
- Unreliable
Antonyms
- Consistent
- Reliable
- Steadfast
Etymology
The word “fickle” comes from the Old English word “fickle”, which means “changeable” or “inconstant”. This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*fikiz”, which is also the source of the Modern English word “fix”.
Usage Notes
Fickle is often used to describe someone’s behavior towards relationships, emotions, or promises, implying a lack of commitment or reliability.
Cultural References
The term “fickle” has been used in various contexts, including literature, music, and film. For example, in Shakespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, the character Puck is often described as fickle.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Fickle heart”
- “Fickle finger of fate”
Related Words or Phrases
- Merciful
- Impulsive
- Somewhat
Collocations
- A fickle lover
- A fickle friend
- A fickle heart
Frequency of Use
Fickle is a less common word compared to other adjectives, but it is still used regularly in formal and informal contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Fikle
- Feckle