vagary

noun

ˈvā-gə-rē How to pronounce vagary (audio)
Definition of vagarynext
as in whim
a sudden impulsive and apparently unmotivated idea or action the vagaries of a rather eccentric, elderly lady

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word vagary distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of vagary are caprice, crotchet, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

When could caprice be used to replace vagary?

While in some cases nearly identical to vagary, caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When can crotchet be used instead of vagary?

The words crotchet and vagary can be used in similar contexts, but crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

Where would whim be a reasonable alternative to vagary?

While the synonyms whim and vagary are close in meaning, whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of vagary That makes the policy initiative vulnerable to the vagaries of politics or local budgeting, critics say. — Topher Sanders, ProPublica, 2 June 2026 Born around 1640, Bembo and her opera remained obscure for centuries, due to the vagaries of her music manuscripts and the historical neglect of women composers. — Claire Fontijn, The Conversation, 18 May 2026 This is especially true for small businesses, which are particularly vulnerable to the vagaries of California’s most hostile business environment in the nation. — Jon Coupal, Oc Register, 13 June 2026 Fans at the Club World Cup also suffered from the heat, thunderstorms, and the vagaries of FIFA’s dynamic ticket pricing, whereby prices rise and fall according to demand. — Sam Knight, New Yorker, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for vagary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vagary
whim
Noun
  • Grants could be canceled due to political whims, and new layers of bureaucracy would inhibit basic scientific activities like publishing papers and attending conferences.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 2 July 2026
  • And, of course, for all his whims on the basketball court to come true.
    — Candace Buckner, New York Times, 2 July 2026
Definition of whim

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Cite this Entry

“Vagary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vagary. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on vagary

Nglish: Translation of vagary for Spanish Speakers

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