capricious
UK: kəˈprɪʃəs | US: kəˈprɪʃəs
adj. given to sudden changes in mood or behavior; unpredictable
adj. impulsive or whimsical
capricious = capr<goat> + icious<adjective suffix>
- capr (from Latin caper "goat") – Reflects the erratic, leaping movements of goats.
- icious (Latin-derived suffix -icius) – Forms adjectives implying "characterized by" or "full of."
Etymology Origin:
The word capricious traces back to the Italian capriccio ("whim"), originally describing sudden movements like a goat's leap. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe human unpredictability. The Latin root caper (goat) underscores the connection between animal behavior and fickle tendencies.
The capricious weather made planning outdoor events difficult.
Her capricious decisions often left her team confused.
Investors feared the capricious fluctuations of the stock market.
The director’s capricious editing style gave the film an uneven pace.
Children’s capricious tastes in food can frustrate parents.