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caprichoso

ka-pree-CHOH-soh/ka.pɾiˈt͡ʃo.so/

“caprichoso” means “whimsical” in Spanish (Changing focus or desire frequently).

whimsical, capricious

Also: fickle, spoiled
General
A child in a bright room surrounded by many different toys, holding a toy airplane while looking longingly at a stuffed bear across the room.

📝 In Action

Mi hermano pequeño es muy caprichoso con la comida.

A2

My little brother is very picky and unpredictable with food.

No seas caprichosa, no podemos comprar todo lo que ves.

B1

Don't be so impulsive; we can't buy everything you see.

El destino es caprichoso y nos volvió a reunir.

B2

Fate is unpredictable and brought us together again.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • antojadizo (someone who acts on sudden cravings)
  • voluble (changeable)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • niño caprichoso – spoiled/whimsical child
  • clima caprichoso – unpredictable weather
  • decisión caprichosa – arbitrary decision

Idioms & Expressions

  • por puro capricho – Doing something just because you want to, without a good reason

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "caprichoso" in Spanish:

capricious→fickle→spoiled→whimsical→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: caprichoso

Question 1 of 3

If someone is 'caprichoso', they usually...

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
capricho(a whim or sudden desire) — Noun
caprichosamente(whimsically) — Adverb
encapricharse(to become obsessed with or stubborn about something) — Verb
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Italian word 'capriccio', which originally described a shiver or a sudden movement, like a goat (capra) jumping unexpectedly.

First recorded: 17th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: capriciousFrench: capricieux

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'caprichoso' always a negative word?

Not always! While it often describes a spoiled person, it can be used poetically to describe nature or art (like 'fanciful' or 'whimsical') without being an insult.

What is the difference between 'caprichoso' and 'impulsivo'?

An 'impulsivo' person acts without thinking. A 'caprichoso' person acts specifically because they have a sudden craving or want to satisfy a passing desire.

How do I say 'I have a craving' using this word?

Actually, you would use the noun form: 'Tengo un capricho' or 'Se me antojó algo'.