Mercurial - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Mercurial describes someone or something that is unpredictable, quick to change, or volatile, like the shifting nature of mercury. It often refers to moods, behavior, or opinions that fluctuate rapidly.
Definition:
Subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind.
Synonyms:
Volatile, capricious, erratic, fickle, unpredictable
Part of Speech:
Adjective
Antonyms:
Stable, consistent, steady
Common Collocations:
Mercurial temperament, mercurial nature, mercurial personality
Derivatives:
Mercurially, mercurialness
Usage Tips:
Use "mercurial" to describe someone whose behavior changes quickly and unpredictably.
Common Phrases:
Mercurial as the wind, mercurial mood swings
Etymology:
Derived from Mercury (Roman god), known for speed and unpredictability.
Examples:
- 1. Her mercurial moods made her hard to predict.
- 2. The stock market is often described as mercurial due to its volatility.
- 3. His mercurial talent shone brightly but inconsistently.
- 4. She has a mercurial personality that keeps everyone guessing.