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Synonyms

troublemaker

American  
[truhb-uhl-mey-ker] / ˈtrʌb əlˌmeɪ kər /

noun

  1. a person who causes difficulties, distress, worry, etc., for others, especially one who does so habitually as a matter of malice.

    Synonyms:
    rabble-rouser, inciter, fomenter, instigator

troublemaker British  
/ ˈtrʌbəlˌmeɪkə /

noun

  1. a person who makes trouble, esp between people

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • troublemaking noun

Etymology

Origin of troublemaker

First recorded in 1910–15; trouble + maker

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But that older brother of his is a troublemaker.

From Literature

When troublemaker Arlene moves in across the street to live with her father, Maria falls helplessly under her corrupting influence.

From Los Angeles Times

Trying to find Maximus a home, animal rescuers posted repeatedly on Instagram days before the 1-year-old dog bit Horta, describing him as a “handsome misunderstood pup” and a “young troublemaker” in danger of being euthanized.

From Los Angeles Times

“Tsotsi,” director Gavin Hood’s film about a young troublemaker who carjacks a vehicle only to find a baby inside, racked up South Africa’s first-ever Oscar win in the international feature category.

From Los Angeles Times

"You," he said to the dragon, "are a troublemaker. And you have bad taste."

From Literature