Fancy

Definition

Fancy can function as a noun, verb, or adjective, generally relating to imagination, desire, or something elaborate and ornamental. As a noun, it refers to a liking or imagination; as a verb, it denotes desiring or imagining something; and as an adjective, it describes something elaborate, decorative, or expensive.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfænsi/
• Respelling: FAN-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfænsi/
• Respelling: FAN-see

Etymology

The word "fancy" originates from the contraction of "fantasy," which comes from the Greek "phantasia," meaning "imagination" or "appearance." It entered Middle English as "fantasie," later evolving into "fancy" as a colloquial term by the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Fanciful (adjective)
• Fanciness (noun)
• Fancied (verb, past tense)
• Fancy-free (adjective)
• Fancier (noun)

Synonyms

• Imagination
• Ornamental
• Luxurious

Antonyms

• Reality
• Plain
• Simple

Usage

The term "fancy" is used in various contexts, including imaginative thought, personal preferences, and describing something extravagant. For instance, "He has a fancy for Italian cuisine," or "The dress was decorated with fancy embroidery."

Related Terms

• Fantasy: A product of imagination, often extravagant or unreal.
• Preference: A greater liking for one alternative over another.
• Ornament: A decorative object or design.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Imagination or a product of the imagination: Refers to a mental image or idea created by imaginative thought.
  • Example: "His fancy led him to envision a world of endless possibilities."
• A liking or fondness for something: Denotes a personal preference or attraction.
  • Example: "She has a fancy for antique furniture."

Verb

• To desire or feel attracted to something: Indicates a wish or inclination.
  • Example: "I fancy a cup of tea."
• To imagine or think about something: Refers to mentally picturing a scenario or concept.
  • Example: "He fancied himself as a famous artist."

Adjective

• Elaborate or decorative: Describes something that is intricate, ornamental, or showy.
  • Example: "The party was held in a fancy venue."
• Luxurious or expensive: Refers to high-end or premium items.
  • Example: "She wore a fancy dress to the gala."