Mercurial
Pronunciation
- UK IPA: /mÉ™Ëˈkjʊəɹɪəl/
- US IPA: /mÉˈkjÊŠriÉ™l/, /mÉˈkjÉ”riÉ™l/
Origin
From Anglo-Norman
Old French mercurial, and their source, Latin mercurialis, from Mercurius ("Mercury").
Adjective
mercurial
- (often capitalized, see Mercurial) Pertaining to the planet Mercury. from 14th c.
- (often capitalized, see Mercurial) Pertaining to the Roman god Mercury, the god of trade; hence, money-making; crafty.. from 15th c.
- J. Q. Adamsthe mercurial wand of commerce
- (astrology) Born under the influence of the planet Mercury, and having such characteristics. from 16th c.
- Of, or pertaining to the element mercury; containing mercury; caused by the action of mercury or quicksilver. from 16th c.
- Having a volatile or lively character; quick-witted, changeable, animated. from 17th c.
- 1723, Charles Walker, Memoirs of Sally Salisbury, I:From the natural Mercurial Briskness of her Temper, a sedentary Life had ever been her Aversion ....