frolics

Frolic is a term used to describe playful, carefree activity or merrymaking. As a noun, it refers to a brief spell or instance of high-spirited fun, often spontaneous and marked by light-hearted mischief. As a verb, to frolic means to play and move about cheerfully and energetically. The plural frolics can describe multiple such episodes or activities, ranging from casual games to small festive outbursts.

Etymology and usage history indicate that the word originated in early modern English and is related to the Dutch vrolijk, meaning merry or joyful. The sense of a spontaneous spree developed in the 16th and 17th centuries and broadened to include various forms of lively play. In some uses, frolic can imply impulsiveness or mischief, but the term generally remains neutral and descriptive.

Contexts for frolics include children at play, animals expressing exuberance, and social or theatrical occasions characterized by lighthearted fun. Frolics can occur in parks, at parties, during performances, or in informal gatherings. The concept emphasizes spontaneity and vitality rather than formal structure or solemnity, and it is often invoked in literature and media to depict carefree, buoyant moments that stand in contrast to more serious themes. Related terms such as romp, lark, and caper capture similar ideas of lively play and merriment.