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Rascally: meaning, definitions and examples

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rascally

 

[ ˈræskəli ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavioral trait

The word 'rascally' describes someone who is mischievous or behaves in a playful and cheeky manner. It often implies a sense of harmlessness when referring to pranks or tricks. Rascality is usually viewed as endearing rather than harmful. This word can apply to both children and adults who engage in playful or roguish behavior.

Synonyms

mischievous, playful, rascal, roguish, sauvage

Examples of usage

  • The rascally boy played tricks on his friends.
  • She had a rascally smile that hinted at mischief.
  • His rascally antics kept the audience entertained.
  • They made a rascally plan to sneak into the event.

Translations

Translations of the word "rascally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 travesso

🇮🇳 शैतान

🇩🇪 schelmisch

🇮🇩 nakal

🇺🇦 непорядний

🇵🇱 figlarny

🇯🇵 いたずらな

🇫🇷 malicieux

🇪🇸 travieso

🇹🇷 yaramaz

🇰🇷 장난꾸러기

🇸🇦 مخادع

🇨🇿 nezbedný

🇸🇰 neposlušný

🇨🇳 顽皮的

🇸🇮 noreč

🇮🇸 óþekkur

🇰🇿 бұзақы

🇬🇪 მალიხი

🇦🇿 şeytan

🇲🇽 travieso

Etymology

The term 'rascally' stems from the word 'rascal', which has its roots in the early 16th century. The etymology traces back to the Middle French word 'rascaille', which means 'rabble' or 'scoundrel', derived from the verb 'rasquer', meaning 'to scrape'. The usage evolved and began to take on a more affectionate tone, especially in reference to children or playful individuals. By the 17th century, 'rascally' was used to describe anything relating to or characteristic of rascals, typically denoting a sense of endearment rather than outright disdain. This historical context underscores how language can shift in tone and meaning over time, reflecting societal attitudes towards behavior deemed mischievous or improper.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,037 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.