Definition

Noun: 1. Reckless or malicious behavior that causes discomfort or annoyance to others: The word "devilment" refers to playful or mischievous actions that are often troublesome, disruptive, or intended to tease or annoy. It implies behavior that is spirited and troublesome, often with a sense of mischief rather than serious malice.

Usage

"Devilment" is used to describe acts of mischief, troublemaking, or playful naughtiness. It often carries a tone that is more exasperated or amused than truly angry, suggesting the behavior is annoying but not necessarily evil. - It is typically used as an uncountable noun (e.g., full of devilment). - It describes the quality or state of being mischievous.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The children were up to some devilment, hiding their teacher's chalk. (The children were engaged in mischievous behavior.)
  • There was a glint of devilment in his eyes as he planned the prank. (His eyes showed a mischievous spark.)
  • Her constant devilment during meetings tried everyone's patience. (Her annoying mischievous behavior was frustrating.)

Advanced Usage

• "To be full of devilment": To be very mischievous or inclined to cause playful trouble.
  • The puppy was full of devilment, chewing on shoes and stealing socks.
• "To be/get up to devilment": To be engaged in or start doing mischievous acts.
  • Whenever it's quiet, I know the kids are getting up to some devilment.

Variants and Related Words

• Devilry (noun): Often used interchangeably with "devilment" to mean wicked or mischievous behavior.
• Mischief (noun): Behavior that is playful but causes annoyance or minor trouble. This is a very close synonym.
• Roguery (noun): Dishonest or unprincipled behavior, but can also mean playful mischief.
• Shenanigans (noun, informal): Secret or dishonest activity, or silly or high-spirited behavior; often overlaps with the meaning of "devilment."

Synonyms

• Mischief: Playful misbehavior or troublemaking.
• Rascality: Behavior characteristic of a rascal; mischievousness.
• Monkeyshines (informal): Mischievous or playful tricks.
• Tomfoolery: Foolish or silly behavior.

Related Phrases

• Like the devil: With great speed or intensity. (Note: This phrase uses "devil" but is related in spirit to energetic, troublesome action.)
  • He ran like the devil to escape their devilment.

Idioms

• "The devil makes work for idle hands": This proverb suggests that people who have nothing to do will be tempted to get into mischief or "devilment."
  • I gave them chores to do; you know what they say about the devil and idle hands.
• "To play the devil": To cause trouble or act as a disruptive force. (This idiom uses "devil" directly and conceptually relates to "devilment.")
  • His tendency to play the devil always stirred up devilment at family gatherings.

Noun

1. reckless or malicious behavior that causes discomfort or annoyance in others