Definition

Playfully quaint or fanciful behavior, humor, or charm that is lighthearted and often whimsical rather than serious or practical.

Example Usage

The children's book was full of whimsy, with talking animals and magical forests around every corner.

Origin

From Middle English 'whim-wham,' possibly related to Old Norse 'hvinandi' (whistling sound); the word evolved to mean fanciful or capricious quality.

Fun Fact

Whimsy is often aesthetically celebrated in contemporary design and entertainment, appearing in everything from indie films to interior decoration trends.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)