Romp

/rɑːmp/ verb

Definition

To play roughly, energetically, or noisily; to have fun in a wild, boisterous way.

Etymology

Origin uncertain, possibly from obsolete English 'ramp' (to climb or jump) or related to 'rompish' behavior. First documented in the 1600s in English. May be connected to Romance language words for running or leaping.

Kelly Says

Victorian novels used 'romp' almost exclusively to describe unruly children playing, but it became hilariously euphemistic—parents would warn their children not to 'romp about' when they meant specific kinds of rough play. The word carries playful mischief!

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