Rugrat

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A playful and energetic young child, typically a toddler, who is often seen as mischievous and lively in their behavior
2. A toddler full of curiosity and energy, known for exploring the world with enthusiasm
3. A small child characterized by lively and often playful or mischievous actions

Etymology: "Rugrat" is a compound of "rug" and "rat", first recorded in 1964. The "rug" element refers to the floor covering, and the image is of a small child crawling about on the carpet. The "rat" element is the familiar animal name used as a playful term for a mischievous, fast-moving small creature, a usage that goes back to the earlier sense of a scrappy, roguish child. Put together, the pairing describes a little one who spends most of their time down near the floor, scurrying around and getting into things. The image is comic rather than unkind, which helps explain why the word caught on as an affectionate name for toddlers.

Synonyms: toddler, youngster, child, kid, infant

Antonyms: adult, grown-up, elder