Caper

/ˈkeɪ.pər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a playful or mischievous act or escapade.
The children enjoyed a caper at the park, climbing trees and playing hide-and-seek.
a prank or practical joke.
The students planned a caper to surprise their teacher on her birthday.
a pickled flower bud used as a seasoning or garnish in cooking.
She added capers to the pasta dish for an extra burst of flavor.
verb
to leap or skip about in a lively or playful way.
The puppy capered around the garden, chasing after butterflies.
to engage in a playful or mischievous escapade.
They decided to caper through the city, stopping at all the famous landmarks.

Etymology

from Middle English 'caper', from Latin 'capra' meaning 'goat'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

capers and swindles
mischievous acts or schemes
to caper about
to move about in a playful or lively way
capering fools
people engaged in silly or playful behavior

Related Words

frolic
a game or playful activity
prank
a practical joke or mischievous act
escapade
an adventurous or reckless adventure

Slang Meanings

a heist or theft, usually planned with humor or audacity.
They pulled off a real caper at the jewelry store.
a fun or rebellious act, often done with friends.
We planned a caper to sneak into the concert.