vagary
UK: vəˈɡeə.ri | US: vəˈɡer.i
n. an unpredictable or erratic action, idea, or occurrence
n. a whimsical or capricious notion
vagary = vag<wander> + ary<noun suffix>
- vag (from Latin vagus meaning "wandering, uncertain")
- ary (a noun-forming suffix indicating "related to" or "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word vagary traces back to the Latin vagus ("wandering"), reflecting its core idea of unpredictability. It entered English via the Italian vagare ("to wander") and French vaguer, evolving to describe whimsical or erratic behavior. The suffix -ary solidifies its noun form, encapsulating the notion of "a wandering act" or "caprice."
The stock market's vagaries make long-term predictions difficult.
She was known for her artistic vagaries, often changing styles abruptly.
Travel plans were disrupted by the vagaries of the weather.
His decisions seemed governed by mere vagary rather than logic.
The vagaries of fashion trends keep designers on their toes.