Skylarking: meaning, definitions and examples

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skylarking

 

[ ˈskaɪˌlɑːrkɪŋ ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

playful behavior

Skylarking refers to playful or mischievous behavior that is often done in a carefree manner. It is commonly associated with youth or light-hearted individuals who engage in activities that may seem foolish or silly. The term implies a degree of frivolity and fun, where the participants are indulging in activities that are not serious or productive. Skylarking can often be seen as a social activity, where groups of people engage in antics that promote laughter and a sense of joy.

Synonyms

frivolity, frolicking, gamboling, tomfoolery.

Examples of usage

  • The children were skylarking in the park.
  • They spent the afternoon skylarking instead of studying.
  • Skylarking on the beach is a favorite summer pastime.
Context #2 | Noun

playful behavior

Skylarking also functions as a noun, referring to the act of engaging in playful or mischievous behavior. It captures a sense of light-heartedness and carefree fun, often involving actions that are silly or absurd. The term can denote a sense of camaraderie among those participating in such playful activities. Skylarking may also carry an implication of slight disorder or chaos due to its spontaneous nature.

Synonyms

joking, mischief, playfulness, shenanigans.

Examples of usage

  • Their skylarking got them into trouble with the teacher.
  • The group's skylarking was a welcome break from their routine.
  • I observed a bit of skylarking at the picnic yesterday.

Translations

Translations of the word "skylarking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brincadeira

🇮🇳 खुश रहना

🇩🇪 herumalbern

🇮🇩 bercanda

🇺🇦 грати

🇵🇱 wygłupiać się

🇯🇵 ふざける

🇫🇷 badiner

🇪🇸 jugar

🇹🇷 şakalaşmak

🇰🇷 장난치다

🇸🇦 المرح

🇨🇿 hloupnout

🇸🇰 blbnúť

🇨🇳 嬉戏

🇸🇮 norčevati

🇮🇸 grínast

🇰🇿 ойнау

🇬🇪 თამაშობა

🇦🇿 şənlənmək

🇲🇽 bromear

Etymology

The term 'skylarking' comes from the mid-19th century and is believed to derive from the combination of the word 'sky' and the old English word 'lark,' which relates to the bird known for its cheerful song and playful behavior. The word 'lark' itself can also refer to merriment or frolicking. In sailing, 'to skylark' originally meant to waste time or to idle about while not engaged in serious work. Over the years, 'skylarking' evolved to encompass a broader definition of playful mischief, particularly among youths. The playful connotation has persisted, and skylarking is often associated with carefree summer days and jovial gatherings among friends, representing a light-hearted escape from the drudgery of daily life.