as in mischief
playful, reckless behavior that is not intended to cause serious harm
a bit of childish roguishness that ended up with a window being broken
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Recent Examples of roguishness
While the film grapples with Dexter’s (Sturgess) addictions and patience-testing roguishness toward her, Hathaway and director Lone Scherfig never land on a compelling reason for Emma to put up with it.
—
Chris Feil, Vulture, 1 May 2026
Chris Feil, Vulture, 1 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for roguishness
Noun
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Court records show Varley was ultimately charged with criminal mischief and two counts of battery.—
Silas Morgan,
The Orlando Sentinel,
5 June 2026
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The magic and mischief of Maradona The quality of Diego Maradona’s overall performance at the 1986 World Cup remains without parallel in the competition’s history.—
Will Jeanes,
New York Times,
5 June 2026
Noun
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Despite Goldstein living out his fantasy and their playfulness throughout the press tour so far, Lopez shut down dating rumors directly when she and Goldstein were asked by Savannah Guthrie on Today.—
Savannah Salazar,
Vulture,
2 June 2026
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The portrait that has emerged from these instances is one of playfulness, but also intentionality.—
Krysta Fauria,
Fortune,
2 June 2026
Noun
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Mustard and vinegar provide the devilment for a flavorful bite, particularly when topped with a scattering of scallions and paprika.—
SAVEUR Editors,
Saveur,
5 Feb. 2025
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But even if truffles are beyond your pay grade, there is plenty of enjoyment to be had in the sheer devilment portrayed in this informative and appetizing book.—
Eugenia Bone,
WSJ,
10 July 2019
Noun
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Social media users can’t get enough of Chico’s antics, as many lauded his mischievousness.—
Alyce Collins,
MSNBC Newsweek,
3 Oct. 2025
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Soon, the America’s Got Talent stage descended into pure chaos, with Cowell and Mandel showcasing their innate mischievousness before the latter turned his attention toward his fellow judges.—
Tyler Jenke,
Billboard,
6 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Roguishness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/roguishness. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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