Devilment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
devilment
[หdษvษlmษnt ]
Definition
mischievous behavior
Devilment refers to playful mischief or mischievous behavior, often characterized by light-hearted pranks or trickery. It describes actions that are intended to cause mild trouble or fun, rather than serious harm.
Synonyms
mischief, pranks, shenanigans, troublemaking.
Examples of usage
- The children engaged in devilment, playing harmless pranks on each other.
- His devilment during the party brought laughter and joy to everyone.
- She couldn't resist the devilment of teasing her younger brother.
- The devilment of the kittens made the afternoon pass quickly.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The term is often used in literature and films to describe characters who indulge in light-hearted mischief, like Puck in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
- In modern music, playful devilment is celebrated in numerous songs where artists express their wild, carefree experiences.
Psychology
- Engaging in playful devilment can be a way for individuals to relieve stress and create social bonds through shared laughter.
- Studies show that children often learn social cues and boundaries through playful teasing and light-hearted mischief.
Literature
- Devilment appears frequently as a theme in folklore, where trickster figures often disrupt the norm and lead to funny, unforeseen consequences.
- Authors like Mark Twain have used the concept of devilment to explore human nature and societal norms through humorous storytelling.
Historical Context
- In the 16th and 17th centuries, devilment was sometimes associated with rebellion against authority, especially among the youth.
- The phrase 'a devil's advocate' emerged in the Catholic Church, referring to someone who argues against an idea, showcasing how devilment can also apply in debates and legal scenarios.
Origin of 'devilment'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the 19th-century term 'devil' which indicated mischief, combined with '-ment' to denote the action of being mischievous.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old English word 'deofol', meaning the personification of evil or mischief.
The term 'devilment' originates from the word 'devil', which is derived from Middle English 'devel' and from Old English 'dฤofol', reflecting the influence of the Latin 'diabolus' and Greek 'diabolos'. Historically, the word encapsulated not only the literal meaning of a devil but also connoted mischievous behavior often associated with the devil's tricks. The suffix โ-mentโ is used to form nouns indicating a state or condition. Hence, 'devilment' embodies a condition of devil-like mischief. This term has been used since at least the 15th century and has evolved to describe behaviors that, while they may cause disruption, are often seen as playful and light-hearted rather than malicious.