Definition

A small, spiny sea creature or a playful, mischievous child, often seen as poor or ragged.

Example

The children played in the park like little urchins, laughing and running around.

Conversation

Did you see that little urchin playing in the park yesterday?

Yeah, he was having a blast climbing the trees!

I wonder where his friends are; he seemed like a real little scamp.

Right? Kids can be so adventurous and carefree.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Urchin originates from the Old French word *herichon*, meaning hedgehog, which itself comes from the Latin *ericius*, meaning hedgehog or spiny creature. The term evolved to refer to a mischievous child, likely due to the prickly nature associated with hedgehogs.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'hedgehog' when remembering 'urchin' — it originally referred to a spiny creature, and over time, it came to describe a mischievous child.

Visually Confused Words