Synonyms for

Imp

Verb / ɪmp / Another word for imp — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

An imp is a small, mischievous devil or sprite.

Synonyms & similar words

monkey rascal pixy scallywag pixie elf gremlin rapscallion scamp hob scalawag brownie sprite goblin elf fairy pixie gnome demon devil monster creature spirit genie sylph specter phantom apparition poltergeist bogeyman bogle hobgoblin

Synonyms by register

Formal

sprite gnome pixy

Informal

rascal scamp mischief-maker little devil

Literary

urchin changeling elfin creature

Antonyms

angel saint hero virtuous person goody-two-shoes

Common collocations

  • naughty imp
  • mischievous imp
  • little imp
  • imp of the perverse
  • imp of darkness
  • imp of Satan

Word family

noun imp
adjective impy

Usage note

Often used affectionately for a mischievous child. Can also refer to a small, evil demon in folklore.

Example sentences

  1. The imp snuck into the room and stole a cookie from the jar.
  2. The mischievous imp played a trick on the farmer by hiding his tools.
  3. The children imagined that the rustling in the bushes was caused by an imp.
  4. The imp cackled with glee as he watched the humans trip over his hidden snare.
  5. The old woman warned the children of the imp that lived in the woods.

Quotes

  • An imp is but a spider-demon, not so terrible when compared with the things we have battled.
  • The imp was cunning, and it was difficult to get the better of him.
  • The imp's eyes had a certain gleam that made her feel uneasy.

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