Fantastical Meaning and Definition
Pronunciation
/ˈfænstəsɪkəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A term used to describe something that is extraordinary, peculiar, or unrelated to reality, often used to express a sense of wonder, awe, or curiosity.
Examples
- The magician performed a fantastical trick that left the audience in amazement.
- The author wrote a fantastical novel that transported readers to a world of fantasy.
- The artist created fantastical creatures in her paintings that seemed to come to life.
- He had a fantastical dream that felt so real he woke up wondering if it was just a dream.
- The city’s nightlife was a fantastical experience, with its vibrant streets and pulsating music.
Etymology
The word “fantastical” originates from the 15th-century Latin term “fantasticus,” meaning “fantastical” or “visionary.” It has evolved over time to encompass a broader range of meanings, including extraordinary, remarkable, and unprecedented.
Usage Notes
Cultural References
The term “fantastical” has appeared in numerous cultural references, including literature, art, and film. Notable examples include J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” series, where fantastical creatures and worlds are a central theme, and the film “Fantasia” (1940), which features fantastical animated sequences.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “fantastical” include:
- Fantastical creatures – mythical or imaginary beings.
- Fantastical worlds – fictional or imaginary lands.
- Fantastical journey – an extraordinary or imaginary adventure.
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to “fantastical” include:
- Extraordinary
- Unreal
- Enchanted
Collocations
Common word combinations with “fantastical” include:
- Fantastical stories
- Fantastical creatures
- Fantastical worlds
Frequency of Use
The word “fantastical” is not frequently used in modern language, but it has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in the context of fantasy literature and film.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings and variations of “fantastical” include:
- Fantacial
- Fantasticaly
- Fantastikle