devilkin: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowLiterary, Archaic
Quick answer
What does “devilkin” mean?
A small devil.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small devil; a minor or inferior demon.
Often used figuratively to describe a mischievous or naughty child, or someone with devilish but minor or playful malevolence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Slightly more likely to be encountered in British historical/literary texts due to the suffix's Germanic roots.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries a slightly old-fashioned, literary tone. The connotation is less sinister than 'devil'.
Frequency
Extremely rare in modern speech in both regions, found primarily in literature, fantasy, or role-playing contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “devilkin” in a Sentence
the devilkin [verb]adj + devilkindevilkin + of + noun (possessive)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rare, only in historical/religious studies discussing minor demonology or literary analysis of older texts.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Potentially in fantasy gaming or genre fiction to denote a class of minor fiendish creature.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “devilkin”
- Misspelling as 'devilking' (confusing '-kin' with 'king').
- Using it in modern, non-literary contexts where 'imp' or 'rascal' would be more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very rare and considered literary or archaic. You are unlikely to encounter it in everyday speech or modern writing outside of specific genres like fantasy.
They are very close synonyms. 'Imp' is far more common and can be used in modern contexts. 'Devilkin' has a more archaic, fairy-tale feel and explicitly references the 'devil' root.
Yes, similar to calling a naughty child a 'little devil', 'devilkin' can be used with a tone of humorous or exasperated affection, though this usage is rare.
Not necessarily. While it refers to a small evil being, its diminutive form often lessens the seriousness. It frequently conveys mischievousness rather than true malevolence, especially in figurative use.
A small devil.
Devilkin is usually literary, archaic in register.
Devilkin: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdevəlkɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdevəlkɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Speak of the devilkin, and he shall appear.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a DEVIL, then make it small with the '-KIN' suffix (like 'napkin' or 'lambkin'). A devilkin is a devil's little kin/relative.
Conceptual Metaphor
MISCHIEF/SMALL EVIL IS A SMALL DEVIL.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'devilkin' MOST appropriately used?