Scallywag

A scallywag is a mischievous, deceitful, and often disreputable person, typically a rascal or rogue. Often used to describe someone who is playfully dishonest, engaging in minor acts of trickery or playful misbehavior. The term often implies a lack of seriousness or moral responsibility, focusing more on their impulsive nature. Historically, the word carried implications of political disloyalty, particularly in the American South after the Civil War, when it described white Southerners who supported Reconstruction governments. The word is often used affectionately, especially when referring to children or those whose mischievousness is seen as harmless.

Scallywag meaning with examples

• The young boy, a notorious scallywag, convinced his little sister that the family dog could talk, then laughed hysterically as she tried to have a conversation with him. His mischievous grin betrayed his amusement. Even his parents, after a short reprimand, found his antics to be entertaining.
• Despite his impressive credentials, the used car salesman revealed himself to be quite the scallywag, frequently misrepresenting the vehicles' history. He was a smooth talker, but ultimately unreliable.
• My nephew, a clever scallywag, used his artistic talents to draw a fake treasure map, then sold it to his friends for candy. Though the map was nonsense, it was quite funny to watch it unfold.
• In the old western, the charming bandit was nothing more than a scallywag, always on the run from the law, but strangely endearing to the townspeople who always helped him.
• The pirate captain, while a ruthless leader, was secretly fond of his first mate's youthful scallywag tricks. They often played pranks aboard the ship, and his youthful energy was contagious.