capriciousness

[kuh-prish-uhs-nis, -pree-shuhs-]

noun

1. the quality of being led by or subject to sudden, odd notions or changes; arbitrary or erratic character.

   Some countries have gone to great lengths to build up a war chest of reserves to insure against the capriciousness of foreign investors.

Other Word Forms

• noncapriciousness noun
• uncapriciousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of capriciousness¹

First recorded in 1600–10; capricious ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Despite the capriciousness of Glenn and Rickey’s friendship as they rocket toward Sacramento, Angarano dutifully acknowledges the city’s agreeably slow pace in the film.

From Salon

The capriciousness of the fire quickly revealed itself.

From Los Angeles Times

Kettle’s neighborhood demonstrates the capriciousness of the fire, which had destroyed at least two dozen homes by noon Thursday.

From Los Angeles Times

Winslet somehow makes whole a character whose hallmark is her capriciousness, as, under successive influences or inspirations, she adopts one persona after another.

From Los Angeles Times

The stakes in Ukraine could hardly be higher, which makes the capriciousness of Republicans — including many who style themselves as diehard supporters — all the more objectionable.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anxiety 
• fluctuation 
• insecurity 
• uncertainty 
• volatility 
• vulnerability 
• weakness