Fickle
'fɪkəl
Definitions
Changing frequently or suddenly, especially in regards to one's interests, loyalties, or affection.
'fɪkəl
Changing frequently, especially as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection.
The weather is notoriously fickle in the spring.
💡 Simply: Imagine a friend who's always changing their mind about what they want to do, or who they like. That's fickle! Like, one day they love pizza, the next day they hate it.
👶 For kids: When something changes a lot and you can't depend on it. Like a cloud that changes shape all the time.
More Examples
She's a fickle friend; one day she's your best pal, the next she barely speaks to you.
The fickle market made it risky to invest.
A fickle heart is often the cause of sorrow.
How It's Used
"Her mood was so fickle that you never knew if she'd be happy or sad."
"He was known for his fickle affections and numerous romantic partners."
"The electorate's fickle opinion shifts constantly during election season."
Idioms & expressions
Fickle finger of fate
Used to describe events that occur by chance or destiny.
"The team lost the championship due to the fickle finger of fate – a last-second foul call."
From Middle English *fikel*, from Old English *ficol* ('deceitful, treacherous'), akin to Old English *fīcan* ('to deceive').
The word 'fickle' has been used for centuries to describe inconstancy and changeability. It can be found in literature from the medieval period onwards.
Memory tip
Think of a fickle friend who always changes their mind about plans.