Shenanigans
/ʃəˈnænɪɡənz/noun
Silly or high-spirited behavior; pranks or mischievous activities.
Did you know?The word 'shenanigans' may have originated from the Irish word 'sionnachuighim', meaning 'I play the fox', hinting at cunning and trickery in its roots.
Etymological Timeline
Irish English
Irish
sionnach
“fox, symbolizing cunning and trickery.”
19th Century
English
shenanigan
“mischievous or deceitful activity.”
19th Century
Irish English
sionnachuighim
“I play the fox, indicating clever mischief.”
20th Century
English
shenanigans
“playful tricks or deception often used humorously.”