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naughty

adjective

/ˈnɔ ti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of naughty

Disobedient, mischievous, or playful in a lighthearted and sometimes mildly inappropriate or cheeky way.
"The toddler gave a naughty grin before running off with his sister's toys."

Detailed meaning of naughty

It refers to engaging in behavior that is considered improper or goes against established rules, norms, or expectations, often in a way that is intended to be amusing or attention-seeking. When someone is described as naughty, it suggests a sense of breaking the rules or boundaries, but without malicious intent or harm. Naughty behavior can be associated with pranks, playful teasing, or harmless mischief, usually in a context where it is not intended to cause serious harm or damage. The term "naughty" is often used to describe children who engage in mischievous antics, but it can also be applied to adults in a playful or flirtatious manner. While naughtiness may push the limits of acceptable behavior, it is generally seen as harmless and often elicits laughter or indulgence rather than serious reprimand.

Example sentences containing naughty

1. The children giggled as they played a naughty prank on their teacher.
2. The puppy got into a naughty mood and started chewing on the furniture.
3. She wore a mischievous smile, hinting at the naughty surprise she had planned.
4. The mischievous cat knocked over a vase in a naughty act of rebellion.
5. He winked at her, silently inviting her to join in his naughty scheme.
6. The naughty kitten playfully swatted at the dangling shoelaces.

History and etymology of naughty

The verb 'natter' has an interesting etymology that can be traced back to the Middle English word 'natren' or 'gnatteren,' which meant to grumble or find fault. It is believed to have evolved from the Old Norse word 'gnata,' which also meant to grumble or complain. Over time, the meaning of 'natter' shifted to refer to casual, often rambling, and inconsequential conversation or chatter. This evolution likely occurred as people began to use the word to describe the light, idle talk that resembles grumbling in its aimless and sometimes trivial nature. Thus, 'natter' retains a connection to its origins in expressing the idea of informal and meandering conversation, often without a specific purpose or point.

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Further usage examples of naughty

1. The children erupted into laughter as they whispered naughty jokes to each other.
2. She scolded the naughty squirrel for stealing food from the bird feeder.
3. The mischievous elf was known for his naughty pranks during the holiday season.
4. The naughty puppy couldn't resist chasing its own tail in circles.
5. They shared a secret, naughty glance across the room, signaling their complicity in a mischievous plan.
6. The naughty puppy chewed up my favorite shoes again!
7. She gave me a naughty wink from across the room.
8. His naughty sense of humor always keeps us laughing.
9. The children played a naughty prank on their teacher.
10. That naughty squirrel keeps stealing from the bird feeder.
11. We shared a naughty secret and giggled uncontrollably.
12. The mischievous grin on her face hinted at a naughty plan.
13. He wore a naughty costume to the Halloween party.
14. The naughty elf hid all the Christmas cookies.
15. The cat's naughty antics entertained the whole family.
16. She had a naughty habit of leaving her clothes everywhere.
17. The naughty kids snuck out to the midnight movie.
18. He whispered a naughty suggestion in her ear.
19. The naughty raccoon raided our trash cans again.
20. Their naughty escapades always led to adventure.
21. The naughty toddler made a mess with her crayons.
22. The naughty duo plotted a playful prank on their friend.
23. The naughty text he sent made her blush.
24. Their naughty banter added spice to their relationship.
25. The mischievous gnome had a naughty streak.