Shenanigans: meaning, definitions and examples

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shenanigans

 

[ ʃəˈnæn.ɪ.ɡənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

funny behavior

Silly or high-spirited behavior; mischief or playful trickery. Shenanigans are often light-hearted and entertaining, intended to bring joy or laughter.

Synonyms

antics, mischief, pranks.

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Word Description / Examples
shenanigans

Used to describe playful, mischievous, or deceitful behavior. It often implies a sense of fun but can carry a negative connotation if the actions cause trouble.

  • Their weekend was full of silly shenanigans.
  • He was tired of his friend's constant shenanigans.
pranks

Refers to tricks or practical jokes played on someone, often meant to be humorous but sometimes causing discomfort or inconvenience. Pranks can be harmless or mean-spirited depending on the execution.

  • They planned elaborate pranks for April Fool's Day.
  • Be careful; he is known for pulling pranks on newcomers.
mischief

Indicates behavior that is intended to cause minor harm or trouble, often in a playful or humorous way. It can also have a slightly negative undertone if the actions are more disruptive.

  • The cat got into some mischief while we were out.
  • His mischief at school earned him a detention.
antics

Refers to amusing, outlandish, and often foolish behavior or actions. It usually has a light-hearted and humorous connotation.

  • The kids' antics at the playground made everyone laugh.
  • Her drunken antics at the party were the talk of the town.

Examples of usage

  • He's always up to some sort of shenanigans.
  • The group of friends were known for their hilarious shenanigans.
  • Don't believe everything he says, he's probably just pulling shenanigans.

Translations

Translations of the word "shenanigans" in other languages:

🇵🇹 travessuras

🇮🇳 शरारतें

🇩🇪 Mätzchen

🇮🇩 keusilan

🇺🇦 витівки

🇵🇱 psoty

🇯🇵 いたずら

🇫🇷 espiègleries

🇪🇸 travesuras

🇹🇷 yaramazlık

🇰🇷 장난

🇸🇦 مزاح

🇨🇿 vylomeniny

🇸🇰 neplechy

🇨🇳 恶作剧

🇸🇮 potegavščine

🇮🇸 uppátæki

🇰🇿 тентекшілік

🇬🇪 ხუმრობა

🇦🇿 zarafatlar

🇲🇽 travesuras

Etymology

The term 'shenanigans' originated in the United States in the 1850s, likely derived from the Irish word 'sionnachuighim' meaning 'I play tricks'. Over time, the word evolved to describe playful or mischievous behavior, often associated with harmless fun and entertainment.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,461 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.