scamp

[skamp]

scamp Definition

  • 1a person, especially a child, who is mischievous in a likable or amusing way
  • 2a dishonest or unscrupulous person; a rogue

Using scamp: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "scamp" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He was a little scamp, always getting into trouble but with a twinkle in his eye.

  • Example

    The scamp had stolen the old lady's purse and run off down the street.

  • Example

    She was a scamp when she was young, always playing pranks on her siblings.

scamp Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for scamp

Antonyms for scamp

Idioms Using scamp

  • scamp it up

    to behave in a mischievous or playful way

    Example

    The kids were scamping it up in the backyard, running around and laughing.

  • to move around quickly and playfully

    Example

    The puppy was scamping about in the park, chasing after leaves and butterflies.

  • to leave quickly and secretly, especially to avoid being caught or punished

    Example

    The thief scamped off into the night, disappearing into the shadows.

Phrases with scamp

  • an affectionate term for a mischievous child

    Example

    Look at that little scamp, always up to something!

  • a dog that is mischievous or disobedient

    Example

    That scamp of a dog has chewed up another pair of shoes!

  • an affectionate term for an older person who is still mischievous or playful

    Example

    My grandpa may be 80, but he's still an old scamp at heart.

Origins of scamp

originally meaning 'a highwayman', from Middle English 'skampe' meaning 'to run away'

📌

Summary: scamp in Brief

'Scamp' [skamp] refers to a person, often a child, who is mischievous in a likable or amusing way. It can also refer to a dishonest or unscrupulous person. The term can be used affectionately, as in 'little scamp,' or to describe a misbehaving animal, as in 'scamp of a dog.' Idioms like 'scamp it up' and 'scamp about' denote playful behavior, while 'scamp off' implies leaving quickly and secretly.