diablerie

A magician performs an act of diablerie with a deck of cards.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Sorcery or black magic: "diablerie" refers to the practice of magic associated with devils or demons; witchcraft.
   • Mischievous or reckless behaviour: It can also denote a quality of extreme boldness or daring, often with a hint of devilish playfulness.
   • Malice or wickedness: The term describes a state of being cruel or evil in nature.

Usage Examples

• Sorcery or black magic:

  • The old woman was accused of diablerie after strange events plagued the village. (She was suspected of practicing demonic magic.)

• Mischievous or reckless behaviour:

  • His diablerie in the stock market made him a fortune, but also a reputation for reckless daring. (His extreme boldness was both admired and feared.)

• Malice or wickedness:

  • The villain's diablerie was evident in every cruel act he committed. (His inherent evilness was clear.)

Advanced Usage

• "Diablerie" as an artistic theme: In literature and art, "diablerie" often denotes a fascination with demonic or satanic imagery.

  • The painter's collection was full of diablerie, depicting scenes of hell and demons. (The art focused on devilish subjects.)

• "Diablerie" in folklore: The term can refer to a body of knowledge or lore about devils and demons.

  • The scholar specialized in medieval diablerie, studying texts on demonology. (He researched ancient teachings about evil spirits.)

Variants and Related Words

• Diabolic (adj): of or relating to the devil; extremely evil.

  • The diabolic plot was designed to destroy the kingdom. (The plot was devilishly evil.)

• Diabolical (adj): same as diabolic, often used for emphasis.

  • She had a diabolical plan to trick her rivals. (The plan was cunning and wicked.)

Synonyms

• Witchcraft: the practice of magic, especially black magic.
• Sorcery: the use of supernatural powers over people or events.
• Devilry: wicked or reckless behaviour, often associated with the devil.
• Mischief: playful but troublesome behaviour (milder than diablerie).

Phrasal Verbs

• No direct phrasal verbs exist for "diablerie", as it is a noun. However, related verbs like "to practice diablerie" can be used.
  • The cult members would practice diablerie under the full moon. (They engaged in demonic rituals.)

Related Idioms

• "To raise the devil": to cause great trouble or to engage in wild behaviour; similar to diablerie.

  • The children raised the devil at the party, breaking vases and spilling drinks. (They caused mischief and chaos.)

• "A devil of a time": an extremely difficult or unpleasant experience, often tinged with recklessness.

  • We had a devil of a time getting the car started in the snow. (We struggled greatly, with an element of frustration.)