arch
Translation
mischievous, playful, teasing
Examples
She gave him an arch look.
She gave him an arch look.
He made an arch comment about her new hat.
He made an arch comment about her new hat.
Grammar Patterns
((arch + noun)) arch (sth.) She gave him an arch smile.
Similar Words
Synonyms: mischievous, playful, teasing; Antonyms: sincere, straightforward
Etymology
From the prefix 'arch-' (chief, principal), as in 'arch-enemy'. The adjective sense developed from the idea of being a 'chief' or 'master' of playful teasing.
Memory Tips
Picture someone raising an eyebrow in an 'arch' to show they are teasing.