Chary

/ˈtʃɛəri/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Cautiously or suspiciously reluctant to do something.

She was chary about accepting the job offer without consulting her family.

Wary; protective of one’s resources or affections.

He was chary of investing in stocks after losing money in the past.

Slow to give or share; sparing.

The artist was chary with her praise, reserving compliments for truly exceptional work.

Showing caution in speech or action.

The chary negotiator weighed every word before making his offer.

Middle English, from Old English 'cearian' meaning to care.

chary of advice

reluctant to give or receive guidance or recommendations.

chary with words

cautiously speaking, often limiting what is said.

be chary

to be careful or cautious in actions or decisions.

caution

an attitude of being careful or avoiding risks.

hesitation

the act of pausing before making a decision.

wariness

the quality of being cautious and alert.

being overly careful or neurotic

He's so chary about trying new foods; it's like he thinks they're all poisonous.

deliberately taking time to think before acting

Don't rush him; he's a bit chary when it comes to making big decisions.