high jinks (also hijinks)
noun

- lively, excited behaviour in which people do things for fun

- boisterous or rambunctious carryings-on

- boisterous celebration or merrymaking; unrestrained fun

Collins Dictionary, Dictionary Com, Merriam-Webster

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PHRASE ORIGIN

The term "high jinks" (also spelled "hijinks") originates from Scotland in the late 17th to early 18th century. Jink was a Scottish verb meaning "to move quickly or nimbly" or "to dodge, dart, or move evasively," likely with some connection to dancing or quick movements.

"High jinks" began as the name of a drinking game played at Scottish gatherings and taverns. In this game, a person would be randomly selected as the "ruler" of the festivities (sometimes called the "master of high jinks") who would then impose forfeits or penalties (usually drinking more alcohol) on others to amuse the group.

By the early 19th century, the meaning had broadened to refer to any boisterous play, practical jokes, or rowdy behaviour - essentially the playful mischief that might result from such drinking games.

The transition to its modern usage, meaning playful pranks or mischievous behaviour, was complete by the mid-19th century. Today, it's commonly used to describe exuberant, mischievous fun or pranks, especially when somewhat disruptive or unruly.

The spelling variation "hijinks" (as one word) became more common in American English during the 20th century, though both spellings remain in use.

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WHEH SPAGHETTI GREW ON TREES

On April 1st, 1957, the BBC aired what remains one of the most audacious April Fool’s Day pranks in history. The segment, broadcast on its current affairs show *Panorama*, featured a report from the “Swiss Spaghetti Harvest,” claiming that a mild winter and the elimination of the spaghetti weevil had led to a bumper crop of spaghetti growing on trees. The report showed smiling Swiss villagers plucking strands of pasta from trees and laying them in the sun to dry.

Narrated in the calm, authoritative voice of esteemed broadcaster Richard Dimbleby, the piece was completely straight-faced. Viewers across the UK—many of whom had little exposure to Italian cuisine at the time—were enthralled. Dozens called the BBC the next day, asking how they could grow their own spaghetti trees. The station reportedly advised them to “place a sprig of spaghetti in a tin of tomato sauce and hope for the best.”

The genius of the prank lay in its presentation: plausible visuals, expert narration, and impeccable timing. It wasn’t just a joke—it was a masterclass in media mischief, combining satire, cultural curiosity, and good-natured high jinks that left an entire nation laughing (or slightly confused).

It’s still cited as one of the greatest media hoaxes of all time, a reminder that even serious broadcasters have a playful side when April 1st rolls around.

Helga & Paul Smth

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SYNONYMS

antics, April fooling, bamboozling, buffooneries, capers, caperings, carrying on, chicanery, clownery, clownings, devilry, duping, foolery, fun and games, funny business, have ons, HIGH JINKS, hijinks, hoax, hoodwinkings, hoots, horseplay, horsing around, japes, jesting, jokings, joshing, larking (about), leg-pulling, monkey business, monkeyshines, play a (practical) joke on, play a trick on, prank, pull/yank someone's chain, put-on, shenanigans, skylarking, spoof, stunt, trick, take for a ride, take in, tomfoolery, wind up

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