slyly

American  

[slahy-lee] / ˈslaɪ li /

adverb

1. in a deceitful manner; cunningly.

   They slyly plot to overthrow us.

2. in a roguish or mischievous way.

   Some were serious, while others slyly winked at the camera.

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Etymology

Origin of slyly

First recorded 1350–1400 slyly ( def. 1 ); 1835–40 slyly ( def. 2 ); sly ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Just as importantly, Moore and Sabbat’s lovely performances slyly alter our impressions of those previous chapters, building to some of the tenderest moments of Jarmusch’s career.

From Los Angeles Times

Alto saxophonist Bobby Watson, a Messenger from 1977 to 1981, is represented by his brightly accessible and slyly swinging “Fuller Love.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“But do our children need such concern or do we slyly foster it clinging to our motherly purpose?”

From Los Angeles Times

Snack businesses have slyly marketed to this group of buyers.

From The Wall Street Journal

D’Aquino’s defense: She had been slyly subverting the propaganda machine the whole time, entertaining Americans with facetious language no one could take seriously and introducing upbeat American music the GIs actually loved.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• shrewdly