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Synonyms

sneaky

American  
[snee-kee] / ˈsni ki /

adjective

sneakier, sneakiest
  1. like or suggestive of a sneak; furtive; deceitful.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of sneaky

First recorded in 1825–35; sneak + -y 1

Explanation

If you're devious or tricky, you might be described as sneaky. Tiptoeing up behind your napping dad to scare him would be sneaky. You might watch your sneaky cat stalking an oblivious squirrel, or act sneaky yourself — slipping quietly into your brother's room to borrow his favorite sweater without asking first. Anytime you make sure not to be seen doing something, you're being sneaky. Sneaky most likely has roots in the Middle English sniken, "to creep or crawl."

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Vocabulary lists containing sneaky

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In his recipe for “Mac and Cheese with Sneaky Veg” from his book ”Eat Like a Legend,” he sneaks in spinach and broccoli chopped into small florets.

From Seattle Times • May 22, 2024

Sneaky contracts, producers and directors who won't call you back.

From Salon • May 6, 2023

Nick Stewart is the director and booker for Sneaky Pete's nightclub in Edinburgh, as well as Scottish coordinator for the Music Venue Trust.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2021

There will also be a handful of gameplay tweaks over the holidays, as Epic is bringing back items like the Sneaky Snowman and snowball launcher.

From The Verge • Dec. 16, 2021

I look over at Sneaky, and I hope he hears what I’m telling him, even though I don’t say a thing.

From "Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero" by Kelly J. Baptist