Pronunciation: [kˈe͡ɪpə] (IPA) 
The word "caper" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "a" and a "p," then an "e" and an "r". It is pronounced as /ˈkeɪ.pər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "c" is pronounced as a hard "k" sound, and the "a" forms a short vowel sound. The "p" sound is voiced by the lips, followed by a brief "e" sound and "r" sound. "Caper" refers to a playful or mischievous activity, or a type of small green flower bud that is commonly used in cooking.
Caper can be defined as both a noun and a verb with varying meanings. As a noun, caper refers to a playful or mischievous activity, often done for enjoyment or entertainment. It can also refer to a prank, an escapade, or a fun adventure. In this context, caper is associated with a sense of lightheartedness and a desire for excitement or amusement.
As a verb, caper means to skip or dance in a lively and playful manner. It can also mean to jump or leap about with joy or enthusiasm. Additionally, caper can refer to the act of engaging in a mischievous or prankish behavior. It emphasizes a sense of spontaneity and frolicking.
Moreover, caper is also used to describe a small, tangy, green bud of a Mediterranean shrub, often preserved in salt or vinegar and used as a condiment or ingredient in various dishes, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine.
The term caper can also be associated with the action of hunting or catching animals, particularly goats, by skillfully jumping onto a rock or ledge, typically as a display of agility or acrobatics.
Overall, the term caper encompasses several notions, ranging from lively and playful activities and mischievous adventures to joyful dancing, culinary ingredients, and acrobatic maneuvers.
The bud of a plant, Capparis spinosa, used as a pickle or condiment.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• To leap, skip, or jump; to prance; to spring.
• A leap; a skip, as in dancing; a leap in sport, as a goat or lamb.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "caper" originated from the Latin word "capparis" which referred to the caper plant. The caper plant, scientifically known as Capparis spinosa, produces small flower buds that are commonly used as a culinary spice. Over time, the Latin word "capparis" evolved into "capreolus" in Old French, which meant "goat" or "kid". The association with goats arose from the plant's preference for growing in rocky terrains, which are often frequented by goats. Eventually, the word "capreolus" was shortened to "caper" in Middle English, specifically referring to the plant's pungent flower buds. The figurative use of "caper" to describe a playful, lively activity or movement also emerged from the idea of goats being associated with energetic and acrobatic behavior.
