CURIOUSER Meaning and
Definition
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"Curiouser" is not a standalone word; it is a variation of the adjective "curious" that has been modified by adding the suffix "-er" to it. The term originates from Lewis Carroll's renowned novel "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," where the phrase "Curiouser and curiouser!" is used by Alice as she explores the whimsical and nonsensical world of Wonderland. This literary construct enhances the meaning of "curious" by adding intensity and depth to its definition.
The word "curious" itself denotes a strong desire for knowledge, an inquisitive nature, or a keen interest in learning and exploring. It refers to a person's tendency to question, investigate, or explore the world around them, driven by an intellectual or emotional curiosity. By adding "-er" to this term, the comparative form of the adjective is formed, suggesting a higher degree or intensity of curiosity. Therefore, "curiouser" implies a heightened level of eagerness or inquisitiveness, often used to capture a sense of intensified wonder, puzzlement, or astonishment.
In contemporary usage, "curiouser" is not recognized as a standard or widely accepted word in the English language, existing predominantly within the context of Lewis Carroll's work. However, it has made its way into popular culture and is sometimes used informally to evoke a Wonderland-esque atmosphere or to express a sense of heightened curiosity or intrigue.
Etymology of CURIOUSER
The word "curiouser" is derived from the adjective "curious". Its etymology can be traced back to the Latin word "curiosus", which means "careful, diligent, inquiring". In English, "curious" originally referred to someone who was eager to learn or inquire about something. Over time, "curious" came to also imply a sense of strangeness or peculiarity. Lewis Carroll popularized the term "curiouser" in his book "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland", where he used it in the famous phrase "Curiouser and curiouser"!
