rascal

Everyday

1. (informal, affectionate) A cheeky, naughty child or animal who makes mischief but is loved. tree →
2. (old) A dishonest person; a rogue. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life grandparents call children «you little rascal» fondly. In old stories a rascal is a scoundrel. Phrases: little rascal, you rascal.

Examples

• Come here, you little rascal! tree →
• The puppy is a rascal; it chewed my shoe. tree →
• My brother is a cheeky rascal. tree →
• The rascal stole the pies from the window. tree →
• Those rascals rang our doorbell and ran away. tree →
• Grandpa calls me his favourite rascal. tree →
• "What! are you here, you old rascal? tree →

Note

Countable. Usually friendly today, not a serious insult. Adjective: rascally. Similar: scamp, monkey, rogue.