mischief
UK: ˈmɪstʃɪf | US: ˈmɪstʃɪf
n. playful misbehavior or troublemaking, often causing minor annoyance or harm
n. (archaic) harm or trouble caused by someone or something
mischief = mis<bad/wrong> + chief<head/leader>
- mis<bad/wrong>: From Old French mes- (badly, wrongly), derived from Latin minus (less). Implies negativity or error.
- chief<head/leader>: From Old French chef (leader, head), from Latin caput (head). Here, it metaphorically represents the "source" or "main part" of trouble.
Etymology Origin:
The word mischief entered Middle English from Old French meschief (misfortune, harm), combining mes- (badly) and chief (head). Originally, it referred to serious harm or disaster (e.g., "The storm wrought great mischief"). Over time, its meaning softened to describe playful or minor troublemaking, reflecting a shift from literal harm to lighter, more mischievous behavior. The logic lies in viewing mischief as "wrong-headed" actions—small-scale disruptions led by a playful "leader" (the mischief-maker).
The children were scolded for their mischief after drawing on the walls.
His mischievous grin hinted at the prank he’d just pulled.
The puppy’s mischief included chewing shoes and stealing socks.
In folklore, fairies are often blamed for household mischief.
(Archaic) The rebellion brought great mischief to the kingdom.