Pronunciation: [wˈaɡəɹi] (IPA) 
The word "waggery" is spelled as "wæɡəri," with the stress on the first syllable. It is derived from the noun "wag," which means a humorous or mischievous person. "Waggery" refers to the behavior or actions of such a person. The spelling of the word can be confusing, as it contains a double-G and a Y towards the end. However, one can remember the spelling by associating it with the pronunciation of the word, which sounds like "wag-ery."
Waggery is a noun that refers to the act or characteristic of being mischievous, playful, or witty in a light-hearted or humorous manner. It is typically associated with lighthearted jokes, pranks, wit, or tricks aimed at amusing others.
Waggery is often found in individuals who possess a natural inclination for teasing, jesting, or entertaining people in a light-hearted and harmless way. It involves the use of clever and imaginative humor, sarcasm, or verbal banter to evoke laughter or amusement. Those who engage in waggery are often quick-witted and skillful in their use of language or actions to create comical situations, causing those around them to laugh, chuckle, or smile.
The term "waggery" may also be used to describe a specific prank, jest, or playful trick. These can range from harmless practical jokes, such as a well-planned and executed prank on friends, to more sophisticated and elaborate forms of witty amusement that may involve wordplay, clever manipulation, or unexpected surprises.
Waggery can bring joy and entertainment to social interactions and is often appreciated as a form of light-hearted humor. However, it is important to remember that waggery should never be malicious, hurtful, or intended to humiliate others. Instead, it is meant to create a positive and enjoyable environment where laughter and amusement can be shared.
Mischievous merriment; pleasantry.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "waggery" dates back to the late 16th or early 17th century and is derived from the word "wag". "Wag" originally meant "to move briskly or shake". In Old English, it evolved to describe one who was lively, jocular, mischievous, or roguish. Consequently, "wag" began to be used as both a noun and a verb to refer to a person who engaged in playful humor, practical jokes, or mischief.
The suffix "-ery" in "waggery" indicates the quality, state, or condition of being a wag. Similar suffixes are often employed to form nouns from adjectives, resulting in words that express a particular state or quality related to the base word. Thus, "waggery" refers to the behavior or characteristic of being a wag – someone who delights in playful tricks, humor, or light-hearted mischief.
