deviltry

[ dev-uhl-tree ]

noun

, plural dev·il·tries.

1. reckless or unrestrained mischievous behavior.
2. extreme or utter wickedness.
3. an act or instance of mischievous or wicked behavior.
4. diabolic magic or art.
5. demonology.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deviltry¹

First recorded in 1780–90; variant of devilry

Example Sentences

She had looked so small and young; and who could know what deviltry lurked abroad that night?

From Project Gutenberg

Having permitted her to influence him so far, out of pure deviltry, he seemed determined to make her regret it.

From Project Gutenberg

He characterized both the meta or medicine dances and the wabeno dances by a term which may be translated deviltry.

From Project Gutenberg

She left shortly after you went, and she means some deviltry.

From Project Gutenberg

What of decency or what of deviltry lay behind the mask that Renwick had seen?

From Project Gutenberg