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experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person.
synonyms:indirectsecondhand
The word 'vicarious' comes from the Latin 'vicarius', meaning 'substitute' or 'deputy', which is derived from 'vicis', meaning 'change' or 'turn'. It was first used in English in the early 19th century.
Everyday use; often found in literature, psychology, and discussions about empathy or emotional experiences.
While not a daily vocabulary staple, 'vicarious' is commonly used in literature and discussions about emotions and experiences, especially in educational and psychological contexts.
Watching her friend live out her dreams gave Sarah a vicarious thrill that she had never felt before.
The book allowed readers to experience a vicarious journey through the eyes of a brave explorer.
He felt a vicarious sense of achievement as he watched his team win the championship from the sidelines.
The word 'vicarious' adds a splash of color to our language, allowing us to express the unique sensation of experiencing something through someone else's actions. Often used when discussing emotions, it originates from the Latin word for 'substitute', hinting at the idea of 'living through' someone else. Whether you're cheering for a friend or getting lost in a novel, vicarious experiences connect us to the world in profound ways. So, the next time you feel a thrill from someone else's adventures, you can confidently say it's a vicarious moment!