Definition

In a way that is dishonest or deceitful, often with a playful or mischievous intent.

Example

He knavishly tricked his friends into believing his tall tales.

Conversation

Did you hear what Tom did at the party last night?

Yeah, he was acting so knavishly, it was hilarious!

I know, right? It's like he enjoys being the troublemaker.

Exactly! But we can't help but laugh at his antics.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Knavishly → It is formed from "knave" (from Old English "cnafa", meaning a boy or servant, later implying a dishonest man) and "-ishly" (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word "knavishly" means in a manner characteristic of a knave, often implying deceitfulness or trickery.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'knave' as someone who behaves dishonestly, and the '-ishly' shows how they act. So, knavishly means acting in a deceitful way.

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