whimsy

noun

whim·​sy ˈ(h)wim-zē 

variants or less commonly whimsey

plural whimsies also whimseys

1

: whim, caprice

2

: the quality or state of being whimsical or fanciful

the designer's new line showed a touch of whimsy

3

: a fanciful or fantastic device, object, or creation especially in writing or art

Synonyms

• bee
• caprice
• crank
• fancy
• freak
• humor
• kink
• maggot
• megrim
• notion
• vagary
• vagrancy
• whim

Examples of whimsy in a Sentence

The designer's new line showed a touch of whimsy.

a bit of decorative whimsy

Recent Examples on the Web

Take the elliptical staircase—capped by dual skylights—to reach each floor where the rooms mirror something out of a storybook with touches of whimsy and elegance. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 6 Dec. 2024

What better way to bring in a touch of whimsy this Christmas than with a playful pom pom wreath. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2024

Gift him some self-care, stylish essentials, or a dose of whimsy this holiday season. —L.a. Hubilla, People.com, 5 Dec. 2024

Known for his vibrant pop culture influences and playful, imaginative characters, Beaufort’s work blends elements of photography with a sense of whimsy and mischief. —Amber Love Bond, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

irregular from whim-wham

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

whimsy

noun

whim·​sy

variants also whimsey

ˈhwim-zē 

ˈwim-

plural whimsies also whimseys

1

: whim, caprice

2

: the quality or state of being whimsical or fanciful

the designer's new line of swimwear showed a touch of whimsy

3

: an imaginative or fantastic object or creation especially in a piece of writing or art