Vicarious
Adjective
Definition: Experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person.
Synonyms: Indirect, Secondhand, Empathetic
Antonyms: Direct, Firsthand, Personal
- She got a vicarious thrill from watching her favorite team win.
- He lived vicariously through his daughter's accomplishments.
- "Vicarious" sounds similar to "via" which means through or by means of someone or something else.
Etymology:
The word "vicarious" comes from the Latin word "vicarius", which means "substitute" or "deputy."
Historical Usage:The term has been used since at least the 17th century to describe experiencing something indirectly through someone else.
Related Idioms:
"Live vicariously"
Explanation:This phrase means to experience or enjoy something through the experiences of others, often because one is unable or unwilling to do it themselves.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "vicarious" with "voracious."
Explanation:"Voracious" means having a great appetite or craving for something, while "vicarious" refers to experiencing something through someone else. They are two different words with different meanings.