Shenanigans

usgb/ʃɪˈnænɪɡənz/
noun

Tricky activities or behavior that are funny or not serious.

There were endless shenanigans at the kids' sleepover party.
Visual representation of "shenanigans" - Tricky activities or behavior that are funny or not serious

Often appears as...

  • get up to shenanigans
  • involved in shenanigans

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shenanigans"
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Playful Context

Used when describing light-hearted tricks or jokes.

Illustration for Playful Context
The children's playful shenanigans kept everyone laughing.
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Group Activities

Often involves a group, suggesting collective fun or pranks.

Illustration for Group Activities
The whole class was in on the shenanigans for April Fool's Day.
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Not Serious

Implies behavior is not intended to cause serious harm.

Illustration for Not Serious
Their shenanigans during the road trip were just for fun.
Visual representation of the word "Shenanigans"

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