cunningly

American  

[kuhn-ing-lee] / ˈkʌn ɪŋ li /

adverb

1. in a way that shows ingenuity or shrewdness.

   The game introduces basic principles of coding and develops problem-solving prowess while cunningly disguised as just another game.

2. Informal. in a way that is charmingly cute or appealing.

   The cunningly named FarmHouse Hotel reflects the quaint beauty of the English countryside.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• overcunningly
  adverb
• quasi-cunningly
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of cunningly

cunning ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

To do something cunningly is to do it in a crafty, sneaky, and skillful manner. You might cunningly distract your parents so your brother can sneak a few extra cookies from the cookie jar. Just make sure he shares. If you do something cunningly, you are being a little sneaky. You might cunningly compliment your mom just to get on her good side before she sees your report card. Your best friend might lie so cunningly that people always believe him, while your awkward fibs get you caught every time. Cunningly comes from the adjective cunning, based on the now-obsolete verb cunnen, "to know."

Related Words

• ably
• adroitly
• artfully
• carefully
• cleverly
• coolly
• deftly
• deliberately
• intelligently
• judiciously
• keenly
• knowingly
• skillfully
• slyly
• smartly