troublemaker

UK: ˈtrʌbəlmeɪkə | US: ˈtrʌbəlmeɪkər

Definition

  1. n. a person who habitually causes problems or conflicts, often intentionally.

Structure
trouble <distress/problem>make <create>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "troublemaker" is a compound formed from three morphemes:

  1. "Trouble" (from Old French "trouble," meaning disturbance or distress)
  2. "Make" (from Old English "macian," meaning to create or cause)
  3. "-er" (a suffix denoting a person who performs an action).
    The term logically combines these elements to describe someone who "creates problems." Its usage emerged in the 16th century, reflecting societal emphasis on identifying disruptive individuals.
Examples

  1. The teacher scolded the troublemaker for disrupting the class.

  2. Every neighborhood seems to have at least one troublemaker.

  3. He was labeled a troublemaker after repeatedly breaking the rules.

  4. The manager warned the troublemaker to stop causing conflicts at work.

  5. Despite his reputation as a troublemaker, he had a loyal group of friends.