Which word best describes a person who is playfully naughty or annoying?

The term "mischievous" is fitting for describing a person who is playfully naughty or annoying because it conveys a sense of playful troublemaking or a tendency to cause minor mischief. This word encompasses behaviors that might be annoying or troublesome in a lighthearted way, often involving playful pranks or teasing that isn't harmful.

Mischievous individuals typically have a playful intent behind their actions, making the term suitable for capturing both the playful nature and the implications of annoyance. It suggests a delightful sense of fun rather than malice, which aligns perfectly with the concept of being annoyingly playful.

Other terms, while closely related, may emphasize different nuances. For example, "rascally" suggests a more general sense of being a rogue or scamp, which can imply a lack of seriousness but does not fully capture the playful connotation of annoying behavior. "Impish" carries a sense of being like an imp or sprite, often associated with more light-hearted and whimsical mischief. "Cheeky" refers to being irreverently bold or brash, which can imply a level of audacity that might not align with simply being playful or annoying. Hence, "mischievous" is the most apt choice for someone