devilishness

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Malicious or wicked behaviour: "devilishness" refers to the quality or state of being like a devil, characterized by extreme wickedness, cruelty, or malevolence.
    • Mischievous or playful wickedness: It can also denote a more playful, roguish form of mischief, often implying clever or cunning trickery without serious harm.
Usage Examples
  • (His extreme wickedness was clear.)
  • (His mischievous, playful wickedness was apparent.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Sheer devilishness": an intensifier used to emphasize the degree of wickedness or mischief.

    • The plan was carried out with sheer devilishness, leaving no room for mercy. (The plan was executed with extreme malice.)

  • "A hint of devilishness": used to describe a subtle or slight quality of mischief or wickedness.

    • His smile carried a hint of devilishness that made others uneasy. (His smile suggested a slight, mischievous wickedness.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Devilish (adj): resembling or characteristic of a devil; extremely wicked or mischievous.

    • The devilish grin on his face made everyone suspicious. (His wicked-looking smile caused distrust.)

  • Devilishly (adv): in a devilish manner; extremely (used as an intensifier in informal contexts).

    • She was devilishly clever in her arguments. (She was extremely clever in a cunning way.)
Synonyms
  • Wickedness: the quality of being evil or morally wrong.
  • Mischief: playful, often harmless, troublemaking.
  • Malice: the intention or desire to do evil.
  • Roguery: dishonest or mischievous behaviour.
Phrasal Verbs

  • Play with devilishness: (rare) to act with deliberate mischief or wickedness.

    • He played with devilishness, knowing it would upset his rivals. (He acted mischievously on purpose.)

  • Revel in devilishness: to take great pleasure in wicked or mischievous actions.

    • The antagonist revelled in devilishness, enjoying the chaos he caused. (He delighted in his cruel behaviour.)
Related Idioms

  • The devil's work: actions considered extremely wicked or evil.

    • The destruction of the village was the devil's work, full of devilishness. (The destruction was a result of extreme wickedness.)

  • A devilish streak: a tendency toward mischievous or wicked behaviour.

    • She has a devilish streak that emerges when she is bored. (She has a hidden tendency to be mischievous.)