crotchet

Synonym Chooser

How is the word crotchet distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of crotchet are caprice, vagary, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

When would caprice be a good substitute for crotchet?

The words caprice and crotchet are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When is vagary a more appropriate choice than crotchet?

In some situations, the words vagary and crotchet are roughly equivalent. However, vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

Where would whim be a reasonable alternative to crotchet?

While the synonyms whim and crotchet 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 crotchet Think outside the box All book collectors develop distinctive crotchets. Michael Dirda, Washington Post, 5 Apr. 2024 The origins of brackets — once referred to as crotchets, crooks, or hooks — are a mystery. Sarah Fay, Longreads, 17 Mar. 2020 Among his other crotchets was an aversion to bare canvas. Peter Schjeldahl, The New Yorker, 7 May 2018 Maxine attended to his every whim and crotchet, never lost faith in his brilliance or potential, and delighted in surrounding him with exactly the sort of frivolous company his wife abhorred. Sadie Stein, New York Times, 11 Oct. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crotchet
Noun
  • Luckily, there’s one easy trick that the most trustworthy, relatable and likable people use.
    Ellen Hendriksen, Contributor, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Attendees will learn tricks of baiting and setting humane traps, which are on loan with a fully refundable deposit if they are returned in good condition, as well as how to transport cats safely.
    Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • In her post, Meli questioned why ambition, despite its downsides, was seen as a moral good and an important trait to have.
    Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
  • These early problem-solving experiences can help develop resilience and adaptability, traits essential for success in STEAM fields and beyond.
    Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 6 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • While the speech shares many characteristics with a State of the Union address, this presentation is slightly different in nature.
    Alana Wise, NPR, 1 Mar. 2025
  • Yale researchers want to speak with Central Floridians affected by 1,4-dioxane The Florida Geological Survey also uncovered an insidious characteristic of this chemical combination: 1,1-DCE inhibits the natural degradation of 1,4-dioxane, allowing its spread.
    Kevin Spear, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • The actor mastered Charles' verbal and physical mannerisms — and played the piano and lip-synced with a fervor few actors have ever mustered.
    EW.com, EW.com, 2 Mar. 2025
  • Friedrich’s mannerisms percolated into pop culture.
    Angelica Frey, JSTOR Daily, 25 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • This could be because viral outrage on social media might come from individuals who weren't customers to begin with or because digital participation in the boycott can sometimes reduce the motivation to take more meaningful action like changing purchasing habits.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025
  • Sandler has struck up a habit of shouting out Chalamet's name in recent weeks, first during Nikki Glaser's monologue at the Golden Globes and again when Chalamet pulled double duty on Saturday Night Live.
    EW.com, EW.com, 3 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • But often the metaphors seem something of a tic, and a tiresome one.
    Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2025
  • Additionally, his son, then 5, exhibited motor and verbal tics, and was diagnosed with asthma, after living in the apartment.
    Elizabeth Hernandez, The Denver Post, 27 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • See what Kessell had to say about the shocking twist below.
    Samantha Highfill, EW.com, 28 Feb. 2025
  • In writing his book about this, Mr. Wambaugh had time and energy to explore each new twist.
    Carmel Dagan, Variety, 28 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Inheriting an existing team with its unique culture, history and quirks.
    Tinna Jackson, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
  • David Lynch is probably the easiest to imitate director, with the most distinctive voice and identifiable quirks, outside of maybe Orson Welles.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crotchet.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crotchet. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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