scamp
Scamp (noun) means a mischievous but likeable person, especially a playful child. Example: “That little scamp hid my keys again.”
How to use scamp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsually a fondly mischievous person, though it can also mean a swindler or describe sloppy, rushed work.
The "mischievous child" sense is affectionate rather than harsh.
Word forms
scamped past tense, scamps plural, scamps plural, scamps singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
That little _____ hid my keys again.
Etymology
From Old French escamper, "to escape," itself from Vulgar Latin roots meaning "to flee the field" — related to "escape."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for scamp
See all rhymes for scamp →Frequently asked questions
What does “scamp” mean?
The word “scamp” means a mischievous but likeable person, especially a playful child. In plain terms, usually a fondly mischievous person, though it can also mean a swindler or describe sloppy, rushed work.
How do you pronounce “scamp”?
“Scamp” is pronounced SKAMP (/ˈskæmp/ in IPA).
How do you use “scamp” in a sentence?
Here is “scamp” used in a sentence: “That little scamp hid my keys again.”
What part of speech is “scamp”?
Depending on how it is used, “scamp” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “scamp” come from?
The word “scamp” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Old French escamper, "to escape," itself from Vulgar Latin roots meaning "to flee the field" — related to "escape.".
How many meanings does “scamp” have?
“Scamp” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mischievous but likeable person, especially a playful child.