Devilries

/ˈdɛvəlriz/ noun

Definition

Plural of devilry; multiple instances of wicked, mischievous, or playfully evil behavior.

Etymology

From Middle English 'devilrie,' derived from Old French 'diablerie.' The plural form adds the standard English -s ending to indicate more than one act of devilry.

Kelly Says

This word appears frequently in Victorian literature to describe the pranks of fictional characters—'the devilries of Tom Sawyer'—showing how English captured mischief with a touch of dark humor.

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