First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1caper
noun ca·per \ˈkā-pər\
Definition of CAPER
1
: any of a genus (Capparis of the family Capparidaceae, the caper family) of low prickly shrubs of the Mediterranean region; especially : one (C. spinosa) cultivated for its buds
2
: one of the immature greenish flower buds of the caper pickled and used as a seasoning or garnish
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CAPER
back-formation from earlier capers (taken as a plural), from Middle English caperis, from Latin capparis, from Greek kapparis
2caper
verb
: to jump around in a lively way
ca·peredca·per·ing \-p(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of CAPER
intransitive verb
: to leap or prance about in a playful manner
See caper defined for English-language learners
Origin of CAPER
probably by shortening & alteration from capriole
First Known Use: 1588
3caper
noun
Definition of CAPER
1
: a frolicsome leap
2
: a capricious escapade : prank
3
: an illegal or questionable act; especially : theft
First Known Use of CAPER
1592
CAPER Defined for Kids
1caper
verb ca·per \ˈkā-pər\
ca·peredca·per·ing
Definition of CAPER for Kids
: to leap about in a lively way
2caper
noun
Definition of CAPER for Kids
1
: a playful or mischievous trick
2
: a lively leap or spring
3
: an illegal or questionable act
Learn More About CAPER
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: caper berryPrevious Word in the Dictionary: Cape primroseAll Words Near: caper
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up caper? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).