fancy
UK: ˈfænsi | US: ˈfænsi
n. 1. a feeling of liking or attraction
n. 2. imagination or creative mental imagery
adj. 1. elaborate or decorative (e.g., fancy dress)
vt. 1. to imagine or suppose
vt. 2. to have a liking for
The word "fancy" originates from the Middle English "fantasy," borrowed from Old French "fantaisie," which in turn derives from the Latin "phantasia" (imagination, idea) and Greek "phantasia" (appearance, display). The root "fan-" relates to visual or mental appearance, while "-cy" evolved as a noun-forming suffix. Over time, "fancy" narrowed from broad "imagination" to specific meanings like "whimsical preference" or "ornate style," reflecting societal shifts toward personal taste and aesthetic appeal.
She took a fancy to the stray kitten and adopted it.
His stories are full of wild fancy and creativity.
The ballroom was decorated with fancy chandeliers.
"I fancy we’ll arrive by noon," he said optimistically.
He fancies himself a great chef, but his dishes are mediocre.