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Definition of canniness

canniness

/ˈkæn.i.nəs/
can · ni · ness
Adverb:cannily
•
Adjective:canny
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canniness Lexical Profile

canniness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of having or showing shrewdness, practical wisdom, and cautious good judgment, especially in financial or business matters.

Example

"Her political canniness allowed her to navigate the complex negotiations without alienating either faction."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for canniness

• Nearby Words

cannibalization
cannibalize
cannily
canniness
canning
cannoli
cannon

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from the Scottish and northern English adjective 'canny' (meaning 'knowing' or 'shrewd', derived from the verb 'can' in the sense of 'to know how') combined with the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Canniness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/canniness
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