impish

[ im-pish ]

adjective

1. mischievous.
2. of, relating to, or characteristic of an imp.

impish

/ ˈɪmpɪʃ /

adjective

1. of or resembling an imp; mischievous

Derived Forms

• ˈimpishness, noun
• ˈimpishly, adverb

Other Words From

• impish·ly adverb
• impish·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of impish¹

First recorded in 1645–55; imp + -ish ¹

Example Sentences

He realized the impish elf had become a runaway success when “one day my parents asked me for a Labubu doll,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

“Because we get a lot of food now, it looks better...” he trailed off and shot an impish grin at the two women, “and I don’t have to mow it.”

From Los Angeles Times

Even after more Tests as captain than any other England player, a job that can make a man twice as old and half as happy, Root remains baby faced and impish at the crease.

From BBC

Goldwait’s absence is sorely felt when the school’s leadership changes, though the actor’s flickering return as an impish, bow-tie-wearing Paul Klee, the Swiss-German painter, offers slight compensation.

From Los Angeles Times

With a high, raspy voice, thick German accent and disarming manner that was by turns ebullient, brisk, maternal and impish, she put both jittery censors and embarrassed callers at ease.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• devilish
• jaunty
• naughty
• playful