Find Antonyms
sly Antonyms
Opposite of sly
Because the opposite of sly shifts with each meaning, the 18 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• adjective (Context 1)
Having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature, especially in achieving one's goals secretly or craftily.
Usage Example
"The naive fox waited patiently behind the bushes until the farmyard was quiet."
Strongest
naive
artless
guileless
ingenuous
Strong
sincere
honest
straightforward
forthright
candid
• adjective (Context 2)
(Of a remark, glance, or smile) playfully mischievous, insinuating, or showing secret knowledge.
Usage Example
"She gave him a blunt wink across the dinner table, hinting that the surprise party was still a secret."
Strong
blunt
direct
earnest
frank
open
• adjective (Context 3)
Done in a secret, furtive, or underhanded manner to avoid notice.
Usage Example
"He took a overt glance at his watch while the speaker was looking the other way."
Strongest
overt
open
aboveboard
Strong
public
transparent
Similar words to sly
Words similar to sly shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
wily
knowing
crafty
furtive
cunning
sneaky
stealthy
mischievous
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Sly. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/sly