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rapscallion

noun

/rapˈskalɪən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of rapscallion

A mischievous and deceitful person, often in a playful or humorous manner.
"The rapscallion's mischievous grin gave away his intentions."

Detailed meaning of rapscallion

A rapscallion is someone who is known for causing trouble, being dishonest, or engaging in sneaky behavior, but not in a harmful or malicious way. The term is often used affectionately to describe a person who is charming despite their mischief-making tendencies. A rapscallion may play pranks, engage in harmless mischief, or be a bit of a trickster, but they are generally not harmful or dangerous. The term 'rapscallion' is often associated with the playful and mischievous behavior of children, but can also be used to describe adults who have a playful and impish spirit.

Example sentences containing rapscallion

1. That mischievous rapscallion always finds a way to stir up trouble.
2. The little rapscallion got into the cookie jar again, leaving a mess.
3. His reputation as a lovable rapscallion followed him throughout childhood.
4. The misadventures of the rapscallion protagonist kept readers entertained.
5. The neighborhood kids considered him the resident rapscallion.
6. The mischievous rapscallion's pranks were both harmless and amusing.

History and etymology of rapscallion

The noun 'rapscallion' has a colorful etymology, likely originating from a combination of the words 'rascal' and 'scallion.' 'Rascal,' which originally referred to a dishonest or mischievous person, blended with 'scallion,' a term that was once used humorously to describe a young or inexperienced individual. Over time, these words merged to create 'rapscallion,' a playful and somewhat endearing term for a mischievous and deceitful person. It often carries a hint of humor and jest, suggesting that the person's antics, while troublesome, are not necessarily malicious. 'Rapscallion' embodies the whimsical and imaginative nature of language evolution, where words combine and transform to capture nuanced shades of meaning, in this case, a roguish and playful troublemaker.

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Further usage examples of rapscallion

1. The old pirate captain was known as a grizzled rapscallion of the high seas.
2. The cunning rapscallion outwitted everyone with his clever schemes.
3. The classroom was never boring with that little rapscallion around.
4. The charming rapscallion won hearts with his roguish smile.
5. The notorious rapscallion led the gang in a series of daring escapades.
6. The town's rapscallion was finally caught and brought to justice.
7. The mischievous rapscallion had a knack for eluding authority.
8. The little rapscallion's adventures were the stuff of legends.
9. The lovable rapscallion had a heart of gold beneath his antics.
10. The rapscallion character in the story was a fan favorite.
11. The rapscallion's pranks kept the whole village on their toes.
12. Despite his reputation, the rapscallion had a loyal group of friends.
13. The cunning rapscallion always had a trick up his sleeve.
14. The rapscallion's escapades were a source of endless amusement.
15. The charming rapscallion charmed his way out of trouble yet again.
16. The young rapscallion was the bane of his older sister's existence.
17. The mischievous rapscallion had a knack for finding hidden treasure.
18. The village elders couldn't help but smile at the antics of the local rapscallion.
19. The little rapscallion's adventures were a beloved bedtime story for children.