# rascal

/ˈɹæskəɫ/ (US) · /ɹˈɑːskəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rascal
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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 notes

- Often used as a playful or affectionate term of address for children.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.