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Devilishness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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devilishness

[ˈdɛvəlɪʃnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

character trait

Devilishness refers to the quality or state of being devilish, which is characterized by mischief, wickedness, or a playful yet malevolent nature. It often implies a sense of cunning or a tendency to cause trouble or pain, sometimes with a hint of charm or allure. In many contexts, it can describe behavior that is delightfully wicked or mischievous.

Synonyms

deceitfulness, mischievousness, slyness, wickedness.

Examples of usage

  • His devilishness was evident in his pranks.
  • The devilishness of her smile hinted at a hidden agenda.
  • There was a certain devilishness in his laughter.
  • The story was filled with devilishness and intrigue.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many literary works, characters displaying devilishness often embody chaos or temptation, challenging the moral order.
  • Classic stories like 'Faust' highlight devilishness as the allure and danger of making deals with negative forces.
  • In Shakespeare's works, devilish characters often use wit and cunning to manipulate others, demonstrating both charm and malevolence.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that playing pranks or engaging in harmless mischief can boost creativity and social bonding.
  • Devilish traits may sometimes reflect a person's playful side, showcasing the human tendency to explore boundaries.
  • The concept of 'devilishness' in behavior can help psychologists understand elements of rebellion and non-conformity.

Pop Culture

  • Devilishness is often portrayed in media through characters like Loki from Marvel Comics, known for his trickster nature.
  • Movies like 'The Devil's Advocate' explore the seductive nature of devilishness, blending moral ambiguity with entertainment.
  • In children's media, characters that exhibit devilish traits, like mischievous animals, teach lessons about consequences and friendship.

History

  • Throughout history, figures associated with devilishness have been both feared and fascinated, such as figures in folklore who tempt individuals.
  • In the Middle Ages, devilish traits were linked to witchcraft accusations, highlighting society's struggle with morality and power.
  • Cultural variations in the concept of devilishness can be seen in different mythologies, where trickster gods serve educational purposes.

Origin of 'devilishness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'devil,' which has roots in the Old English 'deofol' and Latin 'diabolus,' meaning an evil spirit.
  • Historically, 'devilish' was used to describe overly cunning or sly behavior, reflecting its association with trickery.
  • The suffix '-ness' transforms the adjective into a noun, indicating the quality of being mischievous.

The word 'devilishness' is derived from the root word 'devil', which comes from the Old English 'deofol', meaning 'slanderer', and has its origins in the Late Latin 'diabolus', which itself comes from the Greek 'diabolos', meaning 'to slander' or 'to throw across'. The suffix '-ness' is used in English to form nouns that denote a state or quality. Over time, 'devilishness' has taken on layers of meaning, associated not just with the character of an actual devil in various religious and cultural contexts but also as a descriptor for behavior that is playfully wicked or mischievous. In literature and folklore, devilishness is often ascribed to characters who embody a playful yet dangerous charm, making the term rich in connotation and nuance.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,713, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.