shenanigans
Say it: shih-NAN-ih-gunz /ʃɪˈnanɪɡ(ə)nz/ · noun
What “shenanigans” means
Lively, silly behaviour that gets people into playful trouble.
More precisely: Silly or high-spirited behaviour; also, secret or dishonest activity.
Example: “The stag-do shenanigans ended with the groom in a swan costume.”
When to use it
Use it casually for mischievous group behaviour, especially when describing a party or adventure with amused disapproval.
It can also mean
It can also mean secret or dishonest dealings, especially in business or politics.
Similar words
mischief, antics, horseplay
Quick check
At a family gathering, cousins build a cushion fort and secretly capture everyone's slippers. What are they up to?
shenanigans or housework?
Show the answer
shenanigans
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