devilry

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   wicked, cruel, or seemingly diabolical conduct or action

   The villagers mistook the scientific demonstration for devilry.

2. 2
   noun

   reckless or troublesome mischief

   Their midnight devilry ended when a neighbor switched on the lights.

From Middle English develrye, formed from devil + the noun-forming suffix -ry. It first denoted diabolical or wicked action and later also developed a lighter sense of mischievous or unruly behavior.

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