cunning
UK: ˈkʌnɪŋ | US: ˈkʌnɪŋ
adj. skilled in deception or subtlety; crafty
adj. clever or ingenious in design or execution
n. skill in achieving one's ends through deceit or evasion
The word "cunning" traces back to Old English cunnan, meaning "to know" or "to be skilled." Over time, it evolved to emphasize not just knowledge but the clever or deceptive use of that knowledge. By the 14th century, it took on its modern connotations of craftiness and subtlety, reflecting a shift from neutral "skill" to a more sly or manipulative cleverness.
The fox is often portrayed as a cunning animal in folklore.
She used cunning tactics to outwit her opponents in the debate.
His cunning plan allowed him to escape unnoticed.
The thief's cunning made him difficult to catch.
The spy relied on cunning rather than brute force to complete the mission.