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Larrikin
01
(Australian) a mischievous, playful, or cheeky person, often one who defies convention or causes trouble in a lighthearted way
Slang
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Human
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
larrikins
What does "larrikin" mean in Australian slang?
It is used in Australian English to describe a mischievous, playful, or cheeky person, often one who defies convention or causes trouble in a lighthearted, likable way, rather than a criminal or violent one. People typically say "He's a bit of a larrikin" or "Aussie larrikin spirit." The term originated in 19th century Australia, evolving from a negative label for inner city hooligans to a positive national stereotype of irreverent, anti authoritarian humor, and remains common in Australian identity discourse.
Examples
He 's a real larrikin, always up to something fun.
