1. A mischievous or playful person, especially a child:
Example: The students had a reputation as rascals, always playing pranks on their teachers.
2. A dishonest or unprincipled person, often used in a humorous or affectionate way:
Example: The politician was known as a rascal for his clever use of words to get around the rules.
In both meanings, a rascal is often associated with a sense of naughtiness or cunning.