jackanapes

[jak-uh-neyps]

noun

1. an impertinent, presumptuous person, especially a young man; whippersnapper.

2. an impudent, mischievous child.

3. Archaic.,  an ape or monkey.

jackanapes

/ ˈdʒækəˌneɪps /

noun

1. a conceited impertinent person

2. a mischievous child

3. archaic,  a monkey

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackanapes¹

1400–50; late Middle English Jakken-apes, literally, jack (i.e., man) of the ape, nickname of William de la Pole (1396–1450), Duke of Suffolk, whose badge was an ape's clog and chain

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackanapes¹

C16: variant of Jakken-apes , literally: Jack of the ape, nickname of William de la Pole (1396–1450), first Duke of Suffolk, whose badge showed an ape's ball and chain

Related Words

• punk 
• rascal