English Dictionary |
SNEAKY
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Dictionary entry overview: What does sneaky mean?
• SNEAKY (adjective)
The adjective SNEAKY has 2 senses:
2. marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
Familiarity information: SNEAKY used as an adjective is rare.
Dictionary entry details
Declension: comparative and superlative |
Sense 1
Meaning:
Marked by deception
Synonyms:
sneaky; underhand; underhanded
Context example:
achieved success in business only by underhand methods
Similar:
corrupt; crooked (not straight; dishonest or immoral or evasive)
Derivation:
sneak (a person who is regarded as underhanded and furtive and contemptible)
sneakiness (a disposition to be sly and stealthy and to do things surreptitiously)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
Synonyms:
furtive; sneak; sneaky; stealthy; surreptitious
Context example:
a surreptitious glance at his watch
Similar:
concealed (hidden on any grounds for any motive)
Derivation:
sneak (someone who prowls or sneaks about; usually with unlawful intentions)
sneakiness (a disposition to be sly and stealthy and to do things surreptitiously)
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