Origin
Caprice originates from the French word 'caprice', meaning 'whim' or 'fancy'. It entered English usage in the 17th century, originally referring to a sudden change of mind or mood. It is not of Indigenous Australian or Māori origin; however, its French roots reflect European influences in Australian naming practices.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'whim' or 'fancy'. In Australian English, it connotes a spontaneous or playful nature, often chosen to signify a free-spirited personality.
Pronunciation
/kəˈpriːs/ (kuh-PREES) — Stress on the second syllable, with a soft 'k' sound, typical of Australian English pronunciation guiding emphasis and clarity.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Caprice (French origin, same spelling)
- Capricey (informal, affectionate diminutive)
- Kaprice (alternative spelling)
Nicknames
- Capri
- Cappi
Name Days
- 15 April (Feast of Saint Caprice, optional in some Catholic calendars)
- 21 June (Midsummer celebration, less formal) in Australia; no widespread official name days specialising in this name.
- Māori or Aboriginal cultural events do not traditionally celebrate this name.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with kaprice:
- Lila and Caprice
- Sophie and Caprice
- Amelia and Caprice
Fun Facts
- The name gained popularity in the 1960s-70s in Australia, partly influenced by its musical and artistic connotations.
- Caprice is also associated in Australian pop culture with the Cadillac automobile model, symbolising style and elegance.
- Australian artists have occasionally used 'Caprice' as a pseudonym for creative works, highlighting its lyrical quality.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name kaprice:
- Playful
- Free-spirited
- Artistic
- Unconventional
Aesthetic Qualities
Elegant and lyrical, visually appealing in its balanced structure; often associated with artistic and fashionable imagery in Australia, fitting seamlessly into both vintage and modern aesthetics.
Geographical Distribution
More commonly found in urban areas such as Sydney and Melbourne among families inspired by arts and culture, while remaining relatively rare in rural regions.
Numerological Significance
Name Number: 7 (based on Pythagorean numerology), suggesting introspection, wisdom, and a spiritual inclination, often associated with artistic and creative pursuits in Australian contexts.
Astrological Connections
Linked with the Moon and Neptune, suggesting intuitive, artistic, and dreamy qualities suitable for those born under Cancer, Pisces, or Taurus in Australia.
Historical Context
While not common historically in Australia, the name became slightly more visible through artistic and musical references, notably in the 20th century Australia. Its usage has been more in artistic circles than mainstream communities.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well into many languages; in Spanish it remains 'Caprice', in French it retains its original spelling, and in Mandarin Chinese it can be transliterated as 卡普丽丝 (Kǎ pǔ lì sī).
Famous People Named kaprice
- Notable Australians named Caprice include Caprice Bourret, a British-Australian model and television personality, although she is more prominent in the UK.
- There are no widely known historical Australian figures bearing the name.
- The name appears in fiction, used in Australian literature and media to evoke a whimsical character.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2024 | 1 |