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Meaning of sly
having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature
Etymology of sly
The word "sly" originated in the 13th century from the Old Norse word "slýr", meaning "cunning" or "sly", which is also related to the Old English word "slīwan", meaning "to deceive" or "to cheat"
Historically, the word "sly" was used to describe someone who is clever or cunning, but also slightly dishonest or immoral
Synonyms
cunning
clever
crafty
deceitful
dishonest
fraudulent
insidious
manipulative
shrewd
astute
sharp
wily
guileful
duplicitous
double-dealing
underhanded
unscrupulous
treacherous
perfidious
sneaky
furtive
covert
secretive
surreptitious
elusive
evasive
elusive
cagey
artful
designing
Machiavellian
duping
beguiling
deceiving
cheating
swindling
Definitions
- Having or showing a clever and cunning quality, often in a way that is slightly dishonest or immoral
- * Having a natural ability to deceive or manipulate others
Usage Examples
- The sly fox outwitted the hunter by hiding in a nearby bush
- * She was a sly businesswoman who always managed to get what she wanted
- * He had a sly grin on his face as he told the joke
Antonyms
honest
trustworthy
sincere
genuine
straightforward
frank
open
transparent
truthful
reliable
dependable
faithful
loyal
naive
innocent
guileless
artless
straightforward
candid
forthright
direct