slyness

noun

Definition of slynessnext
as in cunning
skill in achieving one's ends through indirect, subtle, or underhanded means the slyness with which the FBI agent infiltrated the subversive organization without their knowledge was indeed impressive

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of slyness The harp is not an instrument of slyness, wryness, or the earth. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 28 Apr. 2026 Like the tricksters of myth, there’s depth to their slyness. — Big Think, 5 Feb. 2026 Ay, the superb slyness of that last response! — Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for slyness
  1. cunning
  2. subtlety
Noun
  • The Odysseus of legend is known for his cunning and his eloquence.
    — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 15 July 2026
  • In Argentina, and by Maradona, it was celebrated for its cunning.
    — Nick Miller, New York Times, 14 July 2026
Definition of cunning
Noun
  • In other words, there’s not a lick of subtlety on this album.
    — Kiana Mickles, Pitchfork, 17 July 2026
  • The experience of the drink is composed, elegant even, a sophisticated push and pull subtlety and counterbalance, but the list of ingredients reads, to me, to be almost flamboyantly random.
    — Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 11 July 2026
Definition of subtlety

Browse Nearby Words

slyly
slyness
smack
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Cite this Entry

“Slyness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/slyness. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on slyness

Nglish: Translation of slyness for Spanish Speakers

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