Fancy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fancy
[หfรฆnsi ]
Definitions
clothing
elaborate in structure or decoration; of a high standard or quality
Synonyms
elaborate, elegant, luxurious, ornate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fancy |
Used to describe something highly decorative, upscale, or sophisticated in a way that seeks to impress. It often implies a superficial sense of extravagance.
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| elaborate |
Used to describe something that is complicated, detailed, and often involves a lot of careful planning or intricate design.
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| ornate |
Used to describe something that has many intricate details and decorative elements, often in an impressive or excessive way.
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| elegant |
Used to describe something that is tastefully luxurious and graceful, often in a simple and understated way.
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| luxurious |
Used to describe something that is very comfortable, of high quality, and expensive, often associated with indulgence and wealth.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a fancy dress to the party.
- The restaurant served fancy dishes for the special occasion.
- The ballroom was decorated with fancy chandeliers and drapes.
imagine
to imagine or think about something
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fancy |
Used when you want to express a sudden or casual liking or wish, usually on a light, whimsical level. Often used in British English.
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| imagine |
Used when you want to create a mental image or conceive an idea in your mind. Often used in contexts of creativity or hypothetical situations.
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| think about |
Used to indicate the act of considering or pondering something, often in a more thoughtful or reflective manner.
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| desire |
Used to express a strong feeling of wanting something or someone, often with an emotional or passionate connotation.
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Examples of usage
- I fancy a trip to the beach this weekend.
- He fancies himself as a great chef.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Fashion and Culture
- The word 'fancy' is often associated with fashion shows that showcase extravagant clothing and designer styles.
- In the Victorian era, 'fancy' items like dresses and dรฉcor became a status symbol among the wealthy.
- Many cultures around the world have 'fancy' cuisine, where meals are artfully presented and made with premium ingredients.
Pop Culture
- In modern usage, 'fancy' often appears in songs, such as 'Fancy' by Iggy Azalea, which celebrates luxury and style.
- Social media influencers frequently use the term to describe 'fancy' lifestyles, featuring expensive tastes and lavish living.
- Movies and TV shows often depict 'fancy' weddings and events that highlight glamour and opulence.
Psychology
- People often associate 'fancy' things with feelings of happiness and increased self-esteem due to social validation.
- 'Fancy' products are sometimes marketed to create an aspirational identity, appealing to people's desire for status.
- Psychologists suggest that the appeal of 'fancy' items can stem from a deeper longing for beauty and order in a chaotic world.
Literature
- In literature, 'fancy' is often used to describe characters who have extravagant tastes or unrealistic dreams.
- Classic works frequently explore themes of 'fancy' versus reality, like how characters' desires clash with their everyday lives.
- Authors like Edgar Allan Poe have played with the concept of 'fancy' to delve into the human imagination and its darker aspects.
Origin of 'fancy'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Middle English 'fancy' which meant imagination or fantasy.
- It comes from the Old French word 'fancie,' which signifies 'to have a liking for something,' reflecting its connection to pleasure.
- Related terms include 'fantasy,' showcasing the link between imagination and what is seen as luxurious or extravagant.
The word 'fancy' originated from the Middle English word 'fantsien' which means 'to imagine'. Over time, it evolved to also mean 'elaborate' or 'high quality'. The usage of 'fancy' as an adjective to describe something as elaborate or of high quality became popular in the 18th century. As a verb, 'fancy' has been used to express desire or imagination since the 16th century.