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Definition of rascally

rascally

/ˈræs.kə.li/
ras · cal · ly
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rascally Lexical Profile

rascally Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Playfully mischievous, cheeky, or impish in a way that is more endearing than harmful.

Example

"The puppy gave a rascally tilt of its head before running off with my slipper."

2

Dishonest, unscrupulous, or characteristic of a knave or scoundrel.

Example

"The detective uncovered a rascally scheme designed to swindle elderly investors out of their savings."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Despite ending in '-ly', 'rascally' functions strictly as an adjective rather than an adverb. In modern English, it is frequently used with playful or affectionate irony for harmless mischief rather than genuine villainy.

• Rhymes for rascally

• Nearby Words

rasbora
rascal
rascality
rascally
rash
rasher
rashly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from 'rascal' plus the adjectival suffix '-ly'. The root 'rascal' comes from Old French 'rascaille' (rabble or mob), originally a collective noun for the inferior beasts of a herd.

Cite this Entry

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