larrikin

[ lar-i-kin ]

noun

1. a street rowdy; hoodlum.

adjective

1. disorderly; rowdy.

larrikin

/ ˈlærɪkɪn /

noun

1. 1. a mischievous person
   2. ( as modifier )

      a larrikin bloke

2. a hooligan

Other Words From

• larri·kin·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of larrikin¹

First recorded in 1865–70; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of larrikin¹

C19: from English dialect: a mischievous youth

Example Sentences

Territory Day, also known as Cracker Night, is a celebration of independence in a state that has always prided itself on being a bit wilder than the rest of the country, and where residents see themselves as protectors of Australia’s larrikin spirit.

From New York Times

The Queenslander is popular with fans; a modest, down-to-earth figure with endearing larrikin qualities and a game of a quality that is only very sparingly conferred by golfing gods.

From BBC

Smith, the golfer with the flowing mullet and the so-called larrikin sense of humor, has credited the never-say-die spirit of those rugby league teams as his inspiration when he needs to make a comeback.

From Seattle Times

“The Queenslander was a larger-than-life figure who drew a widespread fan base during his peak years for not only his hard-hitting ways but his larrikin persona.”

From Seattle Times

Pavlou described himself as a “young larrikin” who thought the election was boring and needed more excitement.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• criminal
• delinquent
• gangster
• goon
• hooligan
• mobster
• punk
• ruffian
• thug