naughty

10 synonyms and 2 antonyms for naughty, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Adj — Badly behaved or mischievous, especially describing a child.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

blue

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

cheeky juicy spicy

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

mischievous disobedient racy gamey gamy risque

Synonyms by Meaning

1. adj

Badly behaved or mischievous, especially describing a child.

“The naughty puppy chewed up another shoe.”

mischievous cheeky disobedient racy blue juicy gamey gamy spicy risque

Opposites

nice

2. adj

Mildly sexual or risqué in a playful, teasing way.

“He sent her a naughty text message.”

Opposites

modest

How to use naughty

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a naughty child naughty behavior feeling a bit naughty

Usually light-hearted and affectionate, not a serious accusation of wrongdoing.

Etymology

From Middle English naughty, built from naught ("nothing, wickedness") plus -y — originally meant "wicked" or "worthless" before softening to today's "mischievous" sense.

Full origin of naughty →

Frequently asked questions

What does “naughty” mean?

The word “naughty” means badly behaved or mischievous, especially describing a child. In plain terms, behaving badly in a minor, often playful way, or cheekily suggestive.

How do you pronounce “naughty”?

“Naughty” is pronounced NAW-tee (/ˈnɔti/ in IPA).

How do you use “naughty” in a sentence?

Here is “naughty” used in a sentence: “The naughty puppy chewed up another shoe.”

What part of speech is “naughty”?

“Naughty” is an adjective.

Where does the word “naughty” come from?

The word “naughty” comes from Middle English. From Middle English naughty, built from naught ("nothing, wickedness") plus -y — originally meant "wicked" or "worthless" before softening to today's "mischievous" sense.

Is “naughty” a common word?

“Naughty” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “naughty” have?

“Naughty” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: badly behaved or mischievous, especially describing a child.

What is the difference between naughty and badly behaved?

Naughty typically describes mischievous or badly behaved conduct in a milder, often affectionate way, especially when talking about children. "Badly behaved" is a more neutral, general description that can apply to more serious misconduct without the playful undertone naughty often carries.

Is naughty a formal or informal word?

Naughty is an informal, everyday word rather than a formal one. It is common in casual speech, especially when talking to or about children, and in playful adult contexts.

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nice blue modest spicy juicy cheeky racy mischievous disobedient

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