English Lexicon

Vicariousness

/vɪˈkɛr.i.əs.nəs/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The state of experiencing something indirectly through another person.

    "Many people find vicariousness in watching movies, feeling the emotions of the characters."
  2. 2

    The quality of being vicarious; living through someone else's experiences.

    "Her vicariousness was evident as she shared her friend's thrilling travel stories."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'vicarious' originates from the Latin 'vicarius', meaning 'substitute' or 'deputy', which evolved through Old French before entering English in the early 19th century. The concept has shifted to encompass experiences felt through another's actions or feelings.

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