HIGHJINKS Meaning and
Definition
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Highjinks, noun (pronunciation: hahy-jinks)
1. lively and boisterous behavior; playful or mischievous antics; rowdy or spirited revelry.
Derived from the combination of "high" (meaning great or intense) and "jinks" (a playful or mischievous activity), highjinks typically refer to lively and exuberant behavior characterized by spirited merriment, mischievous pranks, or playful tricks. It is often associated with a sense of raucous excitement and amusement among a group of people enjoying themselves.
Highjinks can manifest in various forms, ranging from innocent and harmless fun to more audacious and daring activities. It typically involves energetic displays of enthusiasm and a carefree attitude, often exceeding reasonable boundaries by pushing social norms or conventions. Highjinks commonly occur in social gatherings, such as parties, celebrations, or friendly gatherings, where individuals engage in spirited games, laughter, and unexpected surprises.
While highjinks are generally intended to entertain and create a jovial atmosphere, they can sometimes become excessive or disruptive. It may involve practical jokes, harmless pranks, or playful teasing among friends or colleagues. The term can also be used to describe moments of wild behavior, exuberance, or unruly conduct, occasionally leading to trivial disturbances or disorderly conduct.
In summary, highjinks denotes lively and animated behavior infused with a sense of joy and mischief. It embraces and celebrates the exuberant side of human nature, creating an atmosphere of fun and excitement.
Common Misspellings for HIGHJINKS
- gighjinks
- bighjinks
- nighjinks
- jighjinks
- uighjinks
- yighjinks
- hughjinks
- hjghjinks
- hkghjinks
- hoghjinks
- h9ghjinks
- h8ghjinks
- hifhjinks
- hivhjinks
- hibhjinks
- hihhjinks
- hiyhjinks
- hithjinks
- higgjinks
- higbjinks
Etymology of HIGHJINKS
The word "highjinks" has an interesting etymology. It originates from the Scottish word "hijinkis" or "hijinks", which was used to describe boisterous or loud behavior. The Scottish word, in turn, is believed to have come from the Middle French term "hijoung", meaning "mischief" or "uproar". Ultimately, the Middle French term is derived from the Old French word "hijauc", which means "outcry" or "uproar". The word "highjinks" entered the English language in the late 18th century and has been used to refer to noisy, rowdy, or wild behavior ever since.
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