rascal
n. countable C1 Advanced US //ˈɹæskəɫ// UK //ɹˈɑːskəl// ras·cal
n. a person, often a child, who behaves badly but is still liked. You use it for someone who is annoying or tricky in a playful way.
n. a person, especially a child or man, who shows a lack of principles or behaves mischievously. Often carries a tone of affectionate reproach rather than genuine condemnation.
That little rascal hid my car keys again.
The old man smiled as he watched the neighborhood rascals trying to climb the apple tree.
While the character is technically the antagonist, the audience finds him a charming rascal whose wit and audacity make his various crimes seem like harmless pranks.
Usage
Often used as a playful or affectionate term of address for children.