caper
UK: ˈkeɪpə | US: ˈkeɪpər
n. a playful skip or leap
n. a prank or daring escapade
n. (Botany) a prickly shrub (Capparis spinosa) whose pickled buds are used in cooking
vi. to skip or jump about playfully
The word "caper" originates from the Latin capere (to take, seize), reflecting the idea of "seizing" movement in a playful leap. The noun sense of a "prank" evolved metaphorically from the notion of "taking" an opportunity for mischief. The botanical meaning derives from Italian cappero, tracing back to the same Latin root, possibly referencing the plant's "grasping" thorns.
The children capered around the garden, laughing wildly.
Their midnight caper involved stealing the neighbor’s garden gnome.
Capers add a tangy flavor to Mediterranean dishes.
The goat gave a sudden caper over the fence.
He planned an elaborate caper to surprise his friends.