Naughty/ˈnɔːti/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Child Behavior 'Naughty' is commonly used to describe children behaving badly, not adults. The teacher told the child not to be naughty by drawing on walls. Pro Tip 2/3Mild Discipline Often used for mild misbehavior, not for serious wrongdoing or very bad behavior. You are being naughty for not doing your homework. Pro Tip 3/3Slightly Endearing Sometimes used affectionately for minor misdeeds, not with real anger. Oh, you naughty thing, hiding Mommy's phone!