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Definition of naughtiness

naughtiness

/ˈnɔː.ti.nəs/
naugh · ti · ness
Adverb:naughtily
•
Plural:naughtinesses
•
Adjective:naughty
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naughtiness Lexical Profile

naughtiness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being mildly disobedient, unruly, or mischievous, especially in reference to children or pets.

Example

"The teacher addressed the children's naughtiness with patience and firm boundaries."

2

Playfully indecent, suggestive, or mildly improper behavior or humor.

Example

"The comedy show was filled with cheeky jokes and lighthearted naughtiness."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for naughtiness

• Nearby Words

naturopath
naught
naughtily
naughtiness
naughty
nauru
nauruan

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'naughty' and the suffix '-ness'. Originally, 'naughty' meant 'having nothing' or 'needy' (from Old English 'awiht' preceded by a negative prefix), before shifting to mean 'morally bad or wicked', and eventually softening in modern usage to mild, playful disobedience.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Naughtiness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/naughtiness
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