What does vicissitude mean?
Vicissitude means a change in circumstances, particularly one that is unexpected, difficult, or unwelcome. The word often appears in the plural, as in “the vicissitudes of life” or “the vicissitudes of fortune,” to refer to an unpredictable sequence of changes involving success, failure, prosperity, hardship, or other shifts in fortune. It is a formal and somewhat literary noun, more expressive than a simple reference to “changes” because it suggests that the changes are significant and beyond easy control. In a sentence, “the vicissitudes of the business” conveys both the variety of its experiences and the uncertainty or hardship involved. The word is useful when describing the unstable conditions of a life, career, organization, or historical period, while remaining distinct from “vicarious,” which concerns acting or experiencing something on another person’s behalf.
nounA change in circumstances, usually one that is unwelcome or difficult; especially, a sequence of such changes.
- A change in circumstances, especially an unwelcome or difficult one.
- A sequence of changes in circumstances or fortune, usually with an implication of hardship or unpredictability.
"The family endured many vicissitudes as their fortunes changed dramatically."
"Through a series of vicissitudes, the small company became an internationally recognized brand."
"The memoir describes the vicissitudes of growing up in a rapidly changing society."
"The journey was marked by financial vicissitudes and unexpected delays."
The plural is especially common for a series of changes, reversals, hardships, or fluctuations in fortune.
"The novel traces the vicissitudes of two families over several generations."
From a Latin idea of happening “in turn,” vicissitude names the ups and downs that make life unpredictable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of vicissitude
The English word comes from Latin vicissitudo, meaning a change, turn, or alternation, and ultimately relates to Latin vicissim, “in turn.” The word entered English in the early 17th century in the sense of a change or alternation, especially a change in circumstances. Its later and still common use emphasizes unwelcome changes and the ups and downs of fortune.
Related word forms
How vicissitude is actually used
A formal and literary term, usually with a slightly elevated or serious tone. The plural form, “vicissitudes,” is especially common for the changing fortunes or difficulties of a person, organization, or period.
Easily confused with vicissitude
A vicissitude is a change in circumstances, whereas something vicarious is experienced or performed on behalf of another person.