Devilet

/ˈdɛvəlɪt/ noun

Definition

A small or minor devil; a little devilish creature or spirit.

Etymology

From 'devil' plus the diminutive suffix '-et' (from Old French -et, from Latin -ellus). The '-et' suffix creates small versions: anklet, booklet, leaflet—originally used affectionately but sometimes pejoratively.

Kelly Says

Diminutive suffixes like '-et' and '-let' reveal psychology—we often use them to make something seem less threatening or more cute. Calling something a 'devilet' instead of a 'devil' makes it seem manageable, almost cuddly.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.