How Do You Spell QUIZZICAL?

Pronunciation: [kwˈɪzɪkə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "quizzical" follows the pronunciation of /ˈkwɪzɪkəl/. The sound /kw/ at the beginning is followed by /ɪ/, as in the word "sit". The double "z" represents the voiced sound /z/, followed by the unstressed syllable /ɪk/. The final syllable /əl/ is spelled "-ical" to indicate an adjective form. "Quizzical" means showing curiosity or puzzlement, and the spelling accurately reflects the sound of the word when pronounced.

QUIZZICAL Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "quizzical" is an adjective that describes someone, their expression, or their behavior as displaying a mix of curiosity, skepticism, and amusement. It often implies a mildly perplexed or questioning look, gesture, or attitude, indicating some level of surprise or doubt about a particular situation or statement. A person described as quizzical may raise their eyebrows, tilt their head, or wear an expression that combines surprise and amusement.

    Furthermore, "quizzical" can also refer to an action or remark that is puzzling or difficult to decipher, leaving others puzzled or uncertain about its meaning or intention. In this context, it denotes a sense of ambiguity or intrigue, ensuring that it captures attention and generates curiosity.

    The word originates from the noun "quiz," meaning a perplexing or challenging question or puzzle, and it exhibits the suffix "-ical," which commonly denotes characteristics or qualities associated with a particular noun. Consequently, "quizzical" can be interpreted as possessing the traits or qualities typically associated with a quiz—namely, the capacity to provoke inquiry, interest, or uncertainty.

    Overall, the term "quizzical" describes a person, look, behavior, or remark that conveys a combination of curiosity, skepticism, amusement, and sometimes perplexity. It embodies a distinct expression of interest and questioning that captures attention and provokes further investigation or thought.

  2. Comical.

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

Top Common Misspellings for QUIZZICAL *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for QUIZZICAL

Etymology of QUIZZICAL

The origin of the word "quizzical" can be traced back to the late 18th century. It is derived from the noun "quiz" with the suffix "-ical" added to it. The noun "quiz" originally referred to a person who was eccentric or peculiar, and later came to describe a perplexing or challenging question. Over time, the adjective "quizzical" emerged to describe an expression or attitude that displays confusion, skepticism, or amusement.

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