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Definition of wily

wily

/ˈwaɪ.li/
wi · ly
Adverb:wilily
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wily Lexical Profile

wily Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully or through clever stratagems; shrewd and cunning.

Example

"The wily negotiator anticipated every objection and secured a favorable contract for her firm."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for wily

• Nearby Words

wilson
wilt
wilton
wily
wimmera
wimp
wimpiness

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the noun 'wile' (meaning a trick or deceitful stratagem) plus the suffix '-y'. The root 'wile' likely derives from Old Norse 'vel', meaning a trick, craft, or artifice.

Cite this Entry

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