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Definition of slyness

slyness

/ˈslaɪ.nəs/
sly · ness
Adverb:slyly
•
Adjective:sly
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slyness Lexical Profile

slyness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of being cunning, crafty, or deceitful in a secretive or underhanded way.

Example

"The detective immediately recognized the suspect's slyness during the interrogation."

2

Playful, mischievous, or knowing cleverness, often expressed through subtle humor or a secretive look.

Example

"There was a hint of slyness in her smile as she handed over the surprise gift."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for slyness

• Nearby Words

slutty
sly
slyly
slyness
smack
smackdown
smacker

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'sly' (borrowed from Old Norse 'slœgr', meaning clever, cunning, or dexterous) and the native noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

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