jackanapes

[ jak-uh-neyps ]

noun

1. an impertinent, presumptuous person, especially a young man; whippersnapper.
2. an impudent, mischievous child.
3. Archaic. an ape or monkey.

jackanapes

/ ˈdʒækəˌneɪps /

noun

1. a conceited impertinent person
2. a mischievous child
3. archaic.
   a monkey

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackanapes¹

1400–50; late Middle English Jakken-apes, literally, jack (i.e., man) of the ape, nickname of William de la Pole (1396–1450), Duke of Suffolk, whose badge was an ape's clog and chain

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackanapes¹

C16: variant of Jakken-apes , literally: Jack of the ape, nickname of William de la Pole (1396–1450), first Duke of Suffolk, whose badge showed an ape's ball and chain

Example Sentences

“And that,” his manner seemed to say, “is one for you, you interfering little jackanapes.”

From Literature

At this uncomfortable juncture, I perceived with no little confusion that Bono watched us, grinning a wide, jackanapes smile; which cajolery threw me into more distress.

From Literature

The jackanapes in the slashed pink doublet hissed.

From Literature

But after four cocktails the Coney Island jackanapes started to mislay its manners.

From BBC

"By his extreme youth, he can only be a prancing jackanapes, and so I name him."

From Literature

Related Words

• punk
• rascal