Definition

Verb: * To behave in a playful, silly, or boisterous way; to engage in noisy and energetic fun or mischief.

Usage

This is an informal, chiefly British English phrasal verb. It describes energetic, often carefree, and sometimes disruptive playful behavior. It is typically used in casual conversation and writing.

Examples

• The kids were larking about in the living room, jumping on the sofa.
• Stop larking about and help me with these boxes!
• We spent the afternoon larking about on the beach.

Advanced Usage

• "to lark about with [someone/something]": To play boisterously with a specific person or object.
  • He was larking about with his younger brother.
  • The puppies were larking about with an old shoe.

Variants and Related Words

• Lark (verb, informal): To engage in harmless fun or mischief. (e.g., )
• Lark (noun, informal): An activity regarded as foolish or a waste of time; a playful adventure. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Frolic: To play and move about cheerfully, excitedly, or energetically.
• Romp: To play in a lively, boisterous manner.
• Cavort: To jump or dance around excitedly.
• Gambol: To run or jump about playfully.
• Mess about/around (informal): To behave in a silly or playful way.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Horse around (informal): To play in a rough, noisy, and foolish way.
  • The teacher told them to stop horsing around in the hallway.

Related Idioms

• To have a lark: To have a fun, amusing, or entertaining experience.
  • We had a right lark at the fair.

Verb

1. play boisterously
   • The children frolicked in the garden
   • the gamboling lambs in the meadows
   • The toddlers romped in the playroom