Capriccio
/kæˈprɪtʃ.i.oʊ/noun
A lively piece of music or a whimsical work of art.
Did you know?The term 'Capriccio' derives from 'capra', meaning goat, symbolizing the spontaneous and unpredictable nature of creativity, much like a goat's erratic movements.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
capriccio
“A sudden flight or whim, often associated with playful or erratic behavior.”
13th Century
Italian
capriccio
“Refers to a sudden impulse or whim, often used in art and music.”
17th Century
Italian
capriccio
“A playful or whimsical work of art, especially in music.”
18th Century
English
capriccio
“Adopted into English, referring to a lively musical composition.”
19th Century
English
capriccio
“Solidified in musical terminology as a specific form of composition.”