Definition & Meaning of "urchin"in English

What is the origin of the term "urchin" and how is it used?

"Urchin" is a term for a mischievous or ragged child that entered English in the 16th century. It originally referred to a hedgehog or small spiny creature, and by extension came to describe children seen as scruffy, streetwise, or troublesome in appearance or behavior. The term was often used for poor or street children, especially in urban settings. Today it is mostly informal and mildly descriptive, sometimes affectionate or nostalgic, though it can still sound condescending depending on context.