Fanciful: meaning, definitions and examples

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fanciful

 

[ ˈfænsɪfəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

imagination

existing only in the imagination; not based on fact

Synonyms

creative, imaginative, whimsical

Examples of usage

  • He told a fanciful tale of a magical land beyond the clouds.
  • The artist's painting was filled with fanciful creatures and vibrant colors.
Context #2 | Adjective

appearance

excessively intricate or elaborate, especially in a way that is considered excessive or overdone

Synonyms

fussy, ornate, overdecorated

Examples of usage

  • She wore a fanciful dress with layers of ruffles and embellishments.
  • The elaborate design of the building was considered fanciful by many.

Translations

Translations of the word "fanciful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fantasioso

🇮🇳 कल्पनाशील

🇩🇪 fantasievoll

🇮🇩 khayalan

🇺🇦 фантастичний

🇵🇱 fantazyjny

🇯🇵 空想的な (くうそうてきな)

🇫🇷 fantaisiste

🇪🇸 fantasioso

🇹🇷 hayalperest

🇰🇷 상상의

🇸🇦 خيالي

🇨🇿 fantazijní

🇸🇰 fantazijný

🇨🇳 幻想的 (huànxiǎng de)

🇸🇮 domišljijski

🇮🇸 ímyndunarafl

🇰🇿 қиялшыл

🇬🇪 ფანტასტიკური

🇦🇿 xəyalpərəst

🇲🇽 fantasioso

Word origin

The word 'fanciful' originated from the Middle English term 'fantsy' or 'fancy', which meant 'imagination' or 'desire'. Over time, it evolved to 'fanciful' in the 15th century, combining the meanings of 'imaginative' and 'extravagant'. The word has been used to describe things that are imaginative, creative, or elaborate ever since.

See also: fancifully.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,451, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.