LITTLE DEVIL Meaning and
Definition
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Little devil is a colloquial term used to refer to a mischievous or naughty person, typically a child, who engages in playful acts of mischief or cunning tricks. The term "little" in this context indicates the person's young age or small stature, while "devil" refers to their mischievous nature, often implying a sense of playfulness and harmless trouble-making rather than truly malevolent intentions.
The phrase can be used both affectionately and teasingly to describe someone exhibiting mischievous behavior. It is often employed as a term of endearment towards children who display precociousness or a mischievous sense of humor. For adults, it may be used to humorously describe someone who continues to exhibit childlike prankishness or cunningness. The term "little devil" can also be used facetiously or lightheartedly to describe individuals who are exceptionally good at playful mischief, such as pulling practical jokes or engaging in clever and mischievous antics.
While the term is generally used in a positive or endearing light, it can also carry certain implications about a person's tendency to cause trouble in a mischievous yet harmless way. Nevertheless, it is most commonly utilized in a lighthearted and affectionate manner to fondly characterize individuals who exhibit a playful and mischievous spirit.
Common Misspellings for LITTLE DEVIL
- little deval
- little devml
- little devhl
- little devid
- little devih
- little devin
- little devim
- l ittle devil
- li ttle devil
- lit tle devil
- litt le devil
- littl e devil
- little d evil
- little de vil
- little dev il
- little devi l
Etymology of LITTLE DEVIL
The word "little devil" stems from the Old English word "dēofol", which originally referred to an evil spirit or demon. Over time, the word evolved and developed various forms in different languages, such as the Middle English "devel", the Old French "di(e)able" (meaning devil), and the Latin "diabolus" (meaning devil).
The addition of the adjective "little" to the word "devil" emphasizes the small or diminutive size and implies a mischievous or impish nature. This usage portrays someone as devilish or misbehaving, but in a less menacing or intimidating manner compared to the full concept of a devil.
