crafty
UK: ˈkrɑːfti | US: ˈkræfti
adj. skilled at using deception or cunning to achieve one's goals
adj. clever or ingenious in a subtle or underhanded way
adj. (archaic) skillful in making things by hand
The word "crafty" originates from Old English cræftig, meaning "strong, skillful," derived from cræft (skill, art, or cunning). Over time, craft evolved to emphasize manual skill (e.g., craftsmanship) but also took on a negative connotation of deceitful cleverness. The suffix -y (from Old English -ig) turns nouns into adjectives, giving "crafty" its modern sense of sly ingenuity. The duality of "craft" (skill vs. deceit) reflects the word's historical shift from neutral expertise to cunning manipulation.
The crafty fox outwitted the hunters by doubling back on its trail.
She used crafty tactics to negotiate a better deal.
His crafty smile hinted at a hidden agenda.
The thief’s crafty plan involved distracting the guards.
In folklore, the hare is often portrayed as crafty and quick-thinking.