Naughty: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
naughty
[หnษห.ti ]
Definitions
behaviour
Behaving badly, not willing to obey rules or behave well.
Synonyms
bad, disobedient, misbehaving, mischievous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| naughty |
Typically used for children who are playful in a way that isn't mean but can be frustrating for adults. It often has a slightly affectionate tone.
|
| mischievous |
Describes playful behavior that can be annoying but is generally not harmful. It often implies a sense of humor or creativity.
|
| bad |
General term for behavior that is morally wrong, harmful, or undesirable. It can apply to both children and adults.
|
| disobedient |
Used when someone, especially a child, does not follow rules or instructions from authority figures.
|
| misbehaving |
Refers to behavior that is inappropriate or not acceptable in a specific context, often used for children or pets.
|
Examples of usage
- He's been very naughty and hasn't done his homework.
- Don't be so naughty - you know you're not allowed to eat sweets before dinner.
humorous
Slightly rude or indecent in a way that is not serious.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| naughty |
Used to describe a child who misbehaves or does something disobedient. It often has a mildly negative connotation and can be used humorously.
|
| cheeky |
Used to describe someone, typically a child, who is brashly bold or impudent in an endearing or humorous way. It can also apply to playful, slightly rude comments or actions.
|
| saucy |
Refers to someone who is bold and lively, often in a way that is teasingly irreverent. It can also have a slightly risquรฉ or flirty implication.
|
| playful |
Describes someone or something that is full of fun, jokes, and games. It typically has a positive and light-hearted connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He gave her a naughty wink across the room.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'naughty' comes from Middle English 'noughty', which means 'worthless' or 'nothing'.
- It evolved from 'nawty', which originally described someone with a lack of good qualities.
- By the 16th century, it transformed to imply playful misbehavior, especially in children.
Cultural Impact
- In children's literature, 'naughty' characters often go on adventures, helping teach lessons about behavior.
- The term has been popularized in many Christmas songs, with children being 'naughty or nice' to determine their presents.
- In British culture, being called 'naughty' can sometimes be playful, not strictly negative, indicating a sense of humor.
Psychology
- Showing 'naughty' behavior in children is often linked to their desire for attention and exploration of boundaries.
- Psychologists suggest that mischief can be an important part of child development, helping learn consequences.
- Experts indicate that labeling as 'naughty' can lead to stigmatization; positive reinforcement is often more effective.
Pop Culture
- Naughty characters in animations, like mischievous animals, often become fan favorites, celebrating the playful spirit.
- The word appears in many song lyrics, emphasizing its fun and cheeky connotations.
- In comedy, 'naughty' jokes often push societal norms in a playful manner, seeking laughter through surprise.
Literature
- Classic tales often feature 'naughty' children or creatures that challenge authority, leading to memorable storylines.
- Many fairy tales involve a 'naughty' character undergoing transformation after learning lessons.
- In poetry, 'naughty' can evoke both humor and a sense of rebellion, often reflecting the poet's voice.
Translations
Translations of the word "naughty" in other languages:
๐ต๐น travesso
๐ฎ๐ณ เคถเคฐเคพเคฐเคคเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช unartig
๐ฎ๐ฉ nakal
๐บ๐ฆ ะฝะตัะปัั ะฝัะฝะธะน
๐ต๐ฑ niegrzeczny
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใใใช
๐ซ๐ท mรฉchant
๐ช๐ธ travieso
๐น๐ท yaramaz
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฅ๋๊พธ๋ฌ๊ธฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุดุงูุณ
๐จ๐ฟ nezbednรฝ
๐ธ๐ฐ nezbednรฝ
๐จ๐ณ ่ฐ็ฎ็
๐ธ๐ฎ nagajiv
๐ฎ๐ธ รณรพekkur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะตะฝัะตะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แชแแแฅแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ ลฤฑltaq
๐ฒ๐ฝ travieso