cunning
|cun/ning|
B2
/ˈkʌnɪŋ/
deceitful cleverness
Etymology
Etymology Information
'cunning' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cunnian,' where 'cunnan' meant 'to know.'
Historical Evolution
'cunnian' transformed into the Middle English word 'cunning,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cunning.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'knowledgeable or skillful,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deceitful cleverness.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
skill in achieving one's ends by deceit.
His cunning was unmatched in the business world.
Synonyms
craftinessguile
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40