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
  • So the real trick was creating a hue with blendability that people were willing to reapply.
    Megan McIntyre, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
  • The Luray Caverns feel almost magical—complete with musical instruments built into the walls, mirror-like lakes that play tricks on your eyes, and even a wishing well tucked into the underground pathways.
    Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 16 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • On the other hand, balanced searching involves looking for both positive and negative traits for a more complete evaluation.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Still, coaches and teammates in Brooklyn praised his professionalism and defensive energy, two traits that could help him make a case for a limited role.
    Grant Afseth, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Those are characteristics that are best stated overtly.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Most Playful Night Light This is a night light for kids and adults alike, embodying the charming, playful characteristics of all Dusen Dusen products.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 18 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • But there’s something about that sort of adolescent age between 12 and 14, where people’s mannerisms change, and people’s bodies change, and people’s voices change, and all of those things.
    Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Elvis star Austin Butler took forever to lose Presley’s vocal patter and mannerisms.
    Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Companies that invest in truly knowing their customers and understanding their buying habits will keep those customers.
    Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Martinů was something of a chameleon, despite his telltale tics.
    Alex Ross, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Jones explained that Aramayo would always seek permission from those who had uttered the tic.
    Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The chic, minimalist bow print gives it a preppy twist that looks great on long plane rides, road trips, and everywhere in between.
    Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Colin brings his Hollywood perspective to the NFL stage as he and Ashley talk matchups, momentum, and unpredictable twists.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • This simple burlap runner is a rustic fall decorating idea, while fresh or faux marigolds provide color and quirk.
    Savanna Bous, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Quirk With Meaning Parsons School of Design Even the quirks carried weight.
    Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crotchet.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crotchet. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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