- Today's Word
Shenanigans
[shuh-NAN-i-guhns]
Definition
- (noun) Mischievous or playful behavior, often involving tricks or pranks. It can also describe secret or dishonest activity, typically of a playful or minor nature. The term is usually used in the plural form.
Example
The office manager warned the employees that their lunchtime shenanigans, which included elaborate practical jokes, were becoming too disruptive to the workplace.
Fun Fact
The origin of “shenanigans” is somewhat mysterious. It first appeared in print in the mid-19th century in California, possibly brought by Irish or Spanish-speaking settlers. Some linguists suggest it might be derived from the Spanish word “chanada,” meaning “trick” or “deceit,” or from the Irish word “sionnachuighim,” meaning “I play tricks.” Despite its unclear origins, “shenanigans” has become a popular and colorful way to describe mischievous behavior in English-speaking countries around the world.
(verb) To cheat or defraud someone of money or possessions; to obtain something by deceit or to evade payment.
The contractor bilked dozens of elderly homeowners out of their savings before investigators finally caught up with him.