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
Idioms Using scamp
Example
The kids were scamping it up in the backyard, running around and laughing.
Example
The puppy was scamping about in the park, chasing after leaves and butterflies.
Example
The thief scamped off into the night, disappearing into the shadows.
Phrases with scamp
Example
Look at that little scamp, always up to something!
Example
That scamp of a dog has chewed up another pair of shoes!
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.
