Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hanky-panky

noun
/ˈhæŋkiˈpæŋki/
Definition
Hanky-panky refers to deceptive or mischievous behavior, especially in a playful or flirtatious context.
Examples
  • There was a bit of hanky-panky going on at the party last night.
  • The manager was accused of some hanky-panky in the way he handled the finances.
  • They always get up to some harmless hanky-panky when no one’s watching.
Meaning
The term often implies some sort of trickery or shenanigans, usually of a lighthearted or romantic nature.
Synonyms
  • Foolery
  • Shenanigans
  • Trickery
  • Pranks