Mischievous

/ˈmɪs.tʃə.vəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
causing or showing a fondness for causing trouble in a playful way.
The mischievous child hid his sister's toys just to see her reaction.
playfully annoying or causing minor disruption.
With a mischievous grin, she plotted her next prank on her friends.
intended to cause harm or injury, often in a teasing or playful manner.
His mischievous plan to scare the neighbors backfired when he got scared himself.
having a tendency to make playful mischief.
Their mischievous laughter filled the room as they planned their little adventure.
mischievously playful; engaging in acts of mischief.
The kitten's mischievous antics kept the whole family entertained.

Etymology

From Middle English 'mischievous', from Old French 'mescheveus', from 'meschever' ('to end badly')

Common Phrases and Expressions

mischievous grin
A smile that suggests playful mischief.
mischievous intent
An underlying purpose of causing trouble or annoyance.
mischievous eyes
Eyes that sparkle with playful mischief.

Related Words

mischief
Conduct that causes annoying or playful trouble.
impish
Having a playful disposition that often involves mischief.
rascal
A mischievous or cheeky person, often a child.

Slang Meanings

Trouble-maker
He's a total trouble-maker in class.
Prankster
She's known as the prankster of the group.