whim — a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained
Pronunciation (IPA): /wɪm/
Example Sentences
- He bought a unicorn costume on a whim and wore it to work
- Don't make important decisions on a whim
- She quit her job on a whim to become a professional bubble wrap popper
whim
NOUN[/wɪm/]
a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained
On a whim, she bought a bright yellow umbrella she didn't need.
I whim this one - sudden impulse, no reason!
On a whim in light so dim, she decided to trim!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The origin of 'whim' is uncertain, but it likely derives from the earlier word 'whimsy' or possibly from a Scandinavian source. It emerged in English around the 17th century, originally meaning a sudden turn or change of direction, later applied to sudden changes of mind.
Breakdown
'whim' is a standalone word with no clear morpheme breakdown; it entered English as a complete lexical unit, possibly related to 'whim-wham' (a trifling object) but the exact component parts are not definitively established.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“He bought a unicorn costume on a whim and wore it to work”
“Don't make important decisions on a whim”
“She quit her job on a whim to become a professional bubble wrap popper”
“His sudden whim to learn the accordion surprised everyone”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.