Find Synonyms
sly Synonyms
Another word for sly
Choosing another word for sly depends on context, so the 26 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• adjective (Context 1)
Having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature, especially in achieving one's goals secretly or craftily.
Usage Example
"The cunning fox waited patiently behind the bushes until the farmyard was quiet."
Strongest
cunning
crafty
wily
Strong
shrewd
devious
scheming
conniving
calculating
astute
cagey
• adjective (Context 2)
(Of a remark, glance, or smile) playfully mischievous, insinuating, or showing secret knowledge.
Usage Example
"She gave him a knowing wink across the dinner table, hinting that the surprise party was still a secret."
Strongest
knowing
roguish
mischievous
Strong
arch
impish
coy
ironic
wry
• adjective (Context 3)
Done in a secret, furtive, or underhanded manner to avoid notice.
Usage Example
"He took a furtive glance at his watch while the speaker was looking the other way."
Strongest
furtive
sneaky
surreptitious
stealthy
Strong
clandestine
covert
secretive
underhanded
Opposites of sly
The opposite of sly shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
overt
guileless
artless
naive
open
aboveboard
ingenuous
sincere
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Sly. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/sly