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Rapscallion: meaning, definitions and examples

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rapscallion

 

[ ræpˈskæliən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

playful mischief

A rapscallion is a mischievous or cheeky person, often implying a degree of playfulness in their behavior. It is commonly used to describe someone who may be a bit of a rascal or troublemaker, but in a lighthearted manner. The term suggests a sense of humor and charm rather than any serious wrongdoing. Hip, witty, or spirited, rapscallions often find themselves in amusing predicaments.

Synonyms

knave, rascal, rogue, scamp, trickster

Examples of usage

  • The rapscallion played pranks on everyone at the party.
  • Despite his rapscallion ways, he was loved by his friends.
  • The children were a bunch of rapscallions, always getting into trouble.
  • She had a rapscallion spirit that made every day an adventure.

Translations

Translations of the word "rapscallion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rapscallion

🇮🇳 बदमाश

🇩🇪 Schlingel

🇮🇩 nakal

🇺🇦 шибеник

🇵🇱 łajdak

🇯🇵 いたずら者

🇫🇷 vaurien

🇪🇸 pícaro

🇹🇷 yaramaz

🇰🇷 악당

🇸🇦 محتال

🇨🇿 násilník

🇸🇰 neprávnik

🇨🇳 流氓

🇸🇮 pobalin

🇮🇸 skeið

🇰🇿 бұзақы

🇬🇪 ბოროტი

🇦🇿 müxalif

🇲🇽 pícaro

Word origin

The term 'rapscallion' is believed to have originated in the early 19th century, derived from 'rascal' and possibly influenced by the word 'scallion,' which refers to a type of onion. It captures the spirit of mischievousness and often suggests a playful, endearing quality in a person's antics. The usage of 'rapscallion' indicates a shift from harsher terms for mischief-makers to a more whimsical connotation. Over the years, it has been employed in literature and colloquial speech to describe characters that embody a roguish charm, often causing lighthearted trouble rather than serious harm. The word reflects the cultural attitudes toward mischief and charm, showcasing how language can evolve to soften the implications of bad behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,265, 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.