Mercurial

Mercurial

Mercurial


mur-KYOOR-ee-uhl

Definition

(adjective) Subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind.

Example

Her mercurial temperament made collaboration both exciting and exhausting.

Word Origin

Mid 17th century: from Latin mercurialis ‘relating to the god Mercury’, known for his speed and unpredictability.

Fun Fact

Mercurial originally referred to qualities associated with Mercury, the Roman messenger god—quick, clever, and elusive. Today, the word is often used to describe emotionally volatile people, though it can also apply to markets, creative energy, or political behavior. In psychology, a mercurial personality isn’t just moody—it’s brilliant, erratic, and hard to pin down.

Previous Words

Lissome

Today's Word Lissome LISS-um Definition (adjective) Flexible, supple, and graceful...

Read More

Florid

Today's Word Florid FLOR-id Definition (adjective) Having a red or...

Read More

Incipient

Today's Word Incipient in-SIP-ee-uhnt Definition (adjective) In an initial stage;...

Read More

Baleful

Today's Word Baleful BAYL-full Definition (adjective) Threatening harm or expressing...

Read More

Pedantic

Today's Word Pedantic puh-DAN-tik Definition (adjective) Overly concerned with formal...

Read More