high jinks

American  

[hahy-jingks] / ˈhaɪˌdʒɪŋks /

Or hijinks

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. boisterous celebration or merrymaking; unrestrained fun.

   The city is full of conventioneers indulging in their usual high jinks.

   Synonyms:

   horseplay

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high jinks British  

/ ˈhaɪˌdʒɪŋks /

noun

1. lively enjoyment

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high jinks Idioms  

1. Playful or rowdy activity, often involving mischievous pranks. For example, All sorts of high jinks go on at summer camp after “lights out.” About 1700 this term denoted a gambling game accompanied by much drinking, but by the mid-1800s it acquired its present meaning.

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Etymology

Origin of high jinks

First recorded in 1760–70; jink

Example Sentences

Not everyone goes to the theater to be wowed by verbal pyrotechnics or daredevil plot high jinks.

From Los Angeles Times

In Sloane Crosley’s second novel, ‘Cult Classic,’ a woman on the verge of engagement finds herself running into ex after ex; delightful high jinks ensue.

From Los Angeles Times

Certainly the high jinks have caught the attention of those in Australia, who have put the sandpaper down long enough to have their say on England's morals.

From BBC

Still, it’s a bit surreal to hear the announcers obsess over Sonny’s high jinks in the back of the pack while ignoring the winners.

From Los Angeles Times

McDonald is game for the high jinks but doesn’t always seem natural gamboling about the stage.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• antic
• horseplay
• prank