Entry Word: sly

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 clever at attaining one's ends by indirect and often deceptive means <even his rivals concede that heʼs one sly maker of business deals> — see artful 1
2 given to acting in secret and to concealing one's intentions <why, you sly fellow! I had no idea you were planning my birthday party> — see sneaky 1
3 tending to or exhibiting reckless playfulness <a sly joke that backfired> — see mischievous 1