How Do You Spell CHIMERICAL?

Pronunciation: [t͡ʃa͡ɪmˈɛɹɪkə͡l] (IPA)

Chimerical is spelled with three syllables: chi-me-ri-cal. The first syllable is pronounced /ˈkaɪ/ as in kite. The second syllable is pronounced /ˈmɛr/ as in merry. The third syllable is pronounced /ɪ-kəl/ with a schwa sound in the middle and stress on the last syllable. The word comes from the Greek mythological creature, the Chimera, which had the body of a lion, goat and serpent. Chimerical means fanciful or unrealistic, like the creature it's named after.

CHIMERICAL Meaning and Definition

1. The term "chimerical" is an adjective that refers to something that is fanciful or highly imaginative, but ultimately unrealistic or impossible. It describes ideas, concepts, or notions that exist only in the realm of imagination or fantasy and are not grounded in reality.

   In its essence, "chimerical" denotes an illusionary or fantastic nature. It is often associated with ideas or plans that are impractical, unfeasible, or even fictional. This term suggests that the subject being described is a product of unfettered imagination and lacks any logical or plausible basis.

   The origins of the term can be traced back to Greek mythology, referencing the Chimera, a mythical creature with the combined features of various animals. Just as the creature is an extravagant concoction of different parts, "chimerical" implies an extravagant or whimsical nature with little substance.

   When applied to individuals, "chimerical" characterizes those who are often lost in their daydreams or engage in flights of fancy. It may describe a person who frequently indulges in making plans or visions that are far from attainable or realistic.

   More broadly, "chimerical" is employed to critique or dismiss ideas or proposals that lack practicality or feasibility. It serves as a reminder to discern between imaginative thinking and binding reality, cautioning against becoming ensnared by illusions or deceptive fantasies.

2. Merely imaginary; vainly or wildly conceived; that can have no existence except in thought.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CHIMERICAL

• comerical
• chimical
• Chimericle
• Chimeraical
• Chimeriacal
• chimirecal

Etymology of CHIMERICAL

The word "chimerical" traces its origins back to the Greek word "khimaira", which was derived from "khimárē", meaning "she-goat". In Greek mythology, the Chimera was a monstrous fire-breathing creature with the body and head of a lion, a goat's head emerging from its back, and a serpent as its tail. The term "chimerical" began to take shape in English during the 17th century to describe something imaginary, fantastical, or unrealistic, possibly reflecting the notion of combining various animals into an impossible hybrid.

Similar spelling words for CHIMERICAL

• Chimerically,
• schmergel,
• chimarrogale,
• chemical,
• chimeric.