Larrikin

A larrikin is a mischievous, often boisterous, young person, typically male, known for playful pranks, rebellious behaviour, and a disregard for social conventions. They frequently engage in light-hearted acts of vandalism or disruption, often with a cheeky or comedic intent, and may adopt a distinctive vernacular or style. Larrikins embody a spirit of irreverence and anti-establishment sentiment, finding joy in flouting rules and challenging authority. This social type is particularly associated with Australian culture, where it represents a form of national identity, often romanticised for its iconoclastic spirit and unpretentious attitude, though some aspects of their behaviour may be considered offensive.

Larrikin meaning with examples

• The old man shook his head, recalling the larrikins of his youth who had filled their time with silly, and often harmless, stunts. He remembered how they'd once 'borrowed' the mayor's garden gnome, returning it with a comical hat. It seems there will always be people who prefer some chaos over order.
• Despite his strict upbringing, James secretly harbored a larrikin streak. He’d sometimes swap out the labels on the groceries, and even once, he swapped the front door with his neighbour's in the middle of the night. While many took this as immature, his friends knew it was just his way of not becoming someone he wasn't.
• The news report detailed the history of Australian larrikinism, highlighting the historical and social conditions that gave rise to the stereotype. The report discussed how their behaviours, though at times problematic, played a part in forming an identity for Australia.
• The writer decided to centre his novel around a larrikin who used his disruptive nature to uncover a corrupt politician. The protagonist's mischievous pranks and rebellious attitude helped him uncover the deeper evils of society, much to the shock of the public.