Wily
/ˈwīlē/
Meaning & Definition
adjective
Skilled at using deception to achieve one's goals; cunning.
The wily politician managed to outsmart his opponents at every turn.
Crafty or sly in achieving one's aims.
Her wily nature made her a formidable negotiator in the business world.
Full of clever strategies or tricks.
The wily fox eluded the hunters by taking a hidden path through the woods.
Deceptively clever or resourceful.
He devised a wily plan to win back his girlfriend's affection.
Etymology
From Old English 'wigli', meaning 'cunning'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
wily as a fox
Extremely clever and cunning.
Related Words
cunning
Skill employed in a shrewd or sly manner.
shrewd
Having or showing sharp powers of judgment.
Slang Meanings
Sly behavior in achieving something.
Don't trust him; he's pretty wily when it comes to negotiations.
Clever but untrustworthy.
That deal sounds wily, be careful.