naughtiness

Everyday

Naughtiness is bad behaviour, especially by children, such as not doing what you are told or being cheeky. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and at home, naughtiness is mild bad behaviour, not something seriously wrong or dangerous. Mainly British, Irish, Australian and New Zealand English; Americans more often say "misbehaviour" or "being bad". Phrases: "a bit of naughtiness", "no more naughtiness".

Examples

• The puppy's naughtiness made us laugh. tree →
• There will be no more naughtiness at bedtime. tree →
• Teachers deal with naughtiness in class. tree →
• His naughtiness got him sent to his room. tree →
• The twins were famous for their naughtiness. tree →
• A little naughtiness is normal for toddlers. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Adjective: naughty (naughtier, naughtiest). Spelled with "augh", like "daughter" and "taught". The y in naughty changes to i: naught-i-ness.

In Jewish tradition

It means wickedness or an evil heart, which is much stronger than a child's mischief. Here it is what David's oldest brother accuses him of. In the primary lessons: In stories and at home, naughtiness is mild bad behaviour, not something seriously wrong or dangerous. Mainly British, Irish, Australian and New Zealand English; Americans more often say "misbehaviour" or "being bad". Phrases: "a bit of naughtiness", "no more naughtiness".

Examples

• I know thy presumptuousness, and the naughtiness of thy heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle.' (Prophets 1SA.17.28, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Uncountable. Adjective: naughty (naughtier, naughtiest). Spelled with "augh", like "daughter" and "taught". The y in naughty changes to i: naught-i-ness.