Learn English – slang word or phrase for someone who is always playing dirty tricks or unpleasant practical jokes on his friends and acquaintances

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context:

  • He will surreptitiously introduce a frog into your handbag.
  • You leave your car keys on a desk, he sees it and hides it somewhere.
  • He may offer you M&M type candies that will leave your mouth entirely blue.

Although most of us would call this person "a jerk", "an asshole", "a creep", or "an s.o.b.", all these terms are generic and not specific for "one who plays dirty and unpleasant tricks".

I'm not looking for lists. One word or phrase will be enough provided there is a reference link.

Best Answer

The following, although not slang, may be relevant:

practical joker, “someone who instigates practical jokes” – wiktionary
prankster, “One who performs pranks” – wiktionary
trickster, “One who performs a trick”; also “A mythological figure responsible for teaching others through the use of guile and treason” – wiktionary

Wikipedia's practical joke article says the following:

A practical joke (also known as a prank, gag, jape or shenanigan) is a mischievous trick or joke played on someone, generally causing the victim to experience embarrassment, perplexity, confusion, or discomfort. Practical jokes range from confidence tricks [to] hoaxes ... Practical jokes or pranks are generally lighthearted, reversible and non-permanent, and aim to make the victim feel foolish or victimised to a degree, but may also involve cruelty verging on bullying if performed without appropriate finesse. [emph. added]