wily
UK: ˈwaɪli | US: ˈwaɪli
adj. skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully; cunning or crafty.
wily = wil<crafty> + y<adjective suffix>
- wil (from Old English wīle or wīl, meaning "trick" or "stratagem")
- y (a common English suffix forming adjectives, indicating "having the quality of")
Etymology Origin:
The word wily traces back to Old English wīle ("trickery"), linked to Proto-Germanic wīlō ("deceit"). Over time, the suffix -y was added to form an adjective describing someone characterized by cunning. The evolution reflects a shift from the abstract noun ("trickery") to a descriptor for a person adept at manipulation.
The wily fox outsmarted the hunters by doubling back on its trail.
She used wily tactics to negotiate a better deal.
His wily charm often helped him avoid blame.
The detective admired the thief’s wily escape plan.
Politicians are sometimes criticized for being too wily with their promises.