pawky

[ paw-kee ]

adjective

, Chiefly British.

, pawk·i·er, pawk·i·est.

1. cunning; sly.

pawky

/ ˈpɔːkɪ /

adjective

1. having or characterized by a dry wit

Derived Forms

• ˈpawkily, adverb
• ˈpawkiness, noun

Other Words From

• pawki·ly adverb
• pawki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pawky¹

1670–80; Scots pawk trick + -y ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of pawky¹

C17: from Scottish pawk trick, of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Yet he could see into the heart of things as well as most men, for he was a shrewd Scotchman, and had a pawky humour.

From Project Gutenberg

It has a number of sweet Scottish verses, plaintive or pawky.

From Project Gutenberg

With them was a collie, much collie-er than English collies, with a pawky Scottish smile.

From Project Gutenberg

Not that I know what pawky means, but it seems a word I ought to use at once, now we are on Scottish soil.

From Project Gutenberg

But the balladist carries everything before him by the verve and good humour and pawky wit of his song.

From Project Gutenberg