Whim Meaning and Definition
Whim
Pronunciation
/wɪm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
a feeling or mood of lighthearted, fanciful, or playful humor.
Examples
- She acted on a whim and booked a spontaneous weekend getaway.
- The artist’s latest piece was a product of his whimsical imagination.
Synonyms
- Fancy
- Fancy free
Antonyms
- Seriousness
- Rigor
Additional Information
A whim is a sudden, unexplainable desire or notion that can often lead to impulsive decisions. It is characterized by a sense of lightheartedness and playfulness.
In psychology, whims are sometimes seen as a manifestation of the subconscious mind, revealing hidden desires or emotions. In creative fields, whims are often celebrated as a source of inspiration and innovation.
While whims can be beneficial in sparking new ideas and experiences, they can also be detrimental if they lead to reckless or irresponsible behavior.
Etymology
The word “whim” originated in the 15th century from the Middle English word “whimme”, meaning “fanciful notion” or “caprice”. It is related to the Old English word “hwim”, meaning “mind” or “spirit”.
Usage Notes
Whims are often used to describe sudden, unexplainable desires or fancies. Use the word in context to convey a sense of lightheartedness and playfulness.
Cultural References
- In Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”, the Mad Hatter’s whimsical nature is a central theme.
- In popular music, the song “Whims and Fancies” by The Decemberists embodies the whimsical spirit of the word.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- On a whim: meaning to act on a sudden, unexplainable desire.
Related Words or Phrases
- Fancy
- Fancy free
- Caprice
Collocations
- Act on a whim
- Follow a whim
Frequency of Use
The word “whim” is moderately common in modern language, often used in informal contexts to describe sudden desires or fancies.
Common Misspellings
- Wim
- Whym
- Wimms