chary
UK: ˈtʃeəri | US: ˈtʃeri
adj. cautious, wary, or hesitant to act
adj. sparing or frugal in giving or using
chary = char<care> + y<adjective suffix>
- char (from Old English ċearu "care, sorrow") → Retains the core meaning of "care" but evolved to imply caution.
- y (adjective-forming suffix) → Turns nouns into adjectives (e.g., "happy," "windy").
Etymology Origin:
"Chary" traces back to Old English ċearig ("sorrowful, anxious"), derived from ċearu ("care"). Over time, the sense of "care" shifted from emotional concern to cautious restraint. The suffix -y solidified its role as an adjective, reflecting a state of being careful or sparing. The word’s modern usage often implies guardedness, whether in action or resource allocation.
She was chary of sharing personal details with strangers.
The chef is chary with spices, preferring subtle flavors.
Investors grew chary after the market crash.
He gave a chary smile, unsure of how to react.
The government is chary about relaxing regulations too quickly.