Naughty

/ˈnɔːti/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Behaving badly or improperly; mischievous.

The naughty puppy stole my sock and ran around the house.

Sassy or cheeky in a playful way, often causing annoyance.

She gave me a naughty grin after teasing her brother.

Sexually provocative or indecent.

He made a naughty joke that made everyone blush.

From Middle English 'noughty', originally meaning 'having no value' or 'worthless'.

naughty but nice

Someone who behaves badly but is still likable.

naughty step

A place where a child is sent for a time-out after misbehavior.

naughty list

A list of children who have misbehaved, often referred to during Christmas.

misbehavior

Improper or bad behavior.

impish

Having playful or mischievous qualities.

rascal

A mischievous person, often a child.

Suggestive or risque.

That movie was really naughty!

Playfully mischievous.

He’s being a bit naughty today.