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What is another word for Cunning? – 114 Cunning Synonyms

    Need another word for Cunning? Use these synonyms of Cunning from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    clever sly crafty astute shrewd ingenious resourceful skillful adept sharp quick-witted wise canny artful guileful deceitful duplicitous insidious treacherous foxy tricky subtle sophisticated Machiavellian underhanded unscrupulous dishonest fraudulent deceitful duplicitous

    Meaning of Cunning

    Having or showing skill and intelligence in achieving a goal, often by deceitful or unscrupulous means.

    Definitions

    • Having or showing skill and intelligence in achieving a goal, often by deceitful or unscrupulous means
    • * Having a natural ability to do something, especially to influence people or achieve a goal
    • * Showing cleverness and subtlety in achieving a goal, often in a way that is slightly dishonest or unfair

    Etymology of Cunning

    The word "cunning" comes from the Old English word "cunnan," which means "to know" or "to have knowledge"
    The word has been used in English since the 9th century, initially with a positive connotation, but over time it developed a more negative connotation, implying deceit or unscrupulousness

    Example Uses

    • The cunning politician manipulated the situation to her advantage
    • * He was a cunning businessman, always looking for ways to increase his profits
    • * The cunning thief was able to evade detection for months

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    naive foolish gullible trusting innocent simple straightforward honest sincere transparent open aboveboard truthful trustworthy reliable straightforward forthright candid frank blunt

    Related Nouns

    strategy tactic plan scheme plot ruse trick deception artifice guile craft skill cleverness wit intelligence acumen discernment insight perception awareness knowledge expertise

    Related Verbs

    manipulate deceive cheat swindle outwit outsmart outmaneuver trick dupe hoodwink beguile entice lure entrap ensnare outplay outfox outflank outguess

    Related Adjectives

    sly crafty shrewd astute ingenious resourceful skillful adept sharp quick-witted wise canny artful guileful deceitful duplicitous insidious treacherous foxy tricky subtle sophisticated Machiavellian