Definitions for the word "fancy" from multiple English dictionaries.
1. n.
The faculty by which the mind forms an image or a representation of anything perceived before; the power of combining and modifying such objects into new pictures or images; the power of readily and happily creating and recalling such objects for the purpose of amusement, wit, or embellishment; imagination.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
An image or representation of anything formed in the mind; conception; thought; idea; conceit.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
An opinion or notion formed without much reflection; caprice; whim; impression.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
Inclination; liking, formed by caprice rather than reason; as, to strike one's fancy; hence, the object of inclination or liking.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
That which pleases or entertains the taste or caprice without much use or value.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
A sort of love song or light impromptu ballad.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. v. i.
To figure to one's self; to believe or imagine something without proof.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. v. i.
To love.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. v. t.
To form a conception of; to portray in the mind; to imagine.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. v. t.
To have a fancy for; to like; to be pleased with, particularly on account of external appearance or manners.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
11. v. t.
To believe without sufficient evidence; to imagine (something which is unreal).
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
12. a.
Adapted to please the fancy or taste; ornamental; as, fancy goods.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
13. a.
Extravagant; above real value.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
14. n.
(pl. -ies) 1 inclination. 2 whim. 3 supposition. 4 a faculty of imagination. B mental image. adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 ornamental. 2 extravagant. v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (foll. By that) be inclined to suppose. 2 colloq. Feel a desire for (fancy a drink?). 3 colloq. Find sexually attractive. 4 colloq. Value (oneself, one''s ability, etc.) Unduly highly. 5 (in imper.) Exclamation of surprise. 6 imagine. take a fancy to become (esp. Inexplicably) fond of. Take a person''s fancy suddenly attract or please. fanciable adj. (in sense 3 of v.). Fancily adv. Fanciness n. [contraction of *fantasy]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
15. slang
the favourite sports, pets, or pastime of a person, the ton of
low life. Pugilists are sometimes termed the FANCY. Shakspeare uses the
word in the sense of a favourite or pet; and the paramour of a
prostitute is still called her FANCY MAN.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864
Dictionary entries nearby:
Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "fancy" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and
contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "fancy" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history.
The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.
Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "fancy") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.
This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brands mentioned on the page. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only.