Definitions

canny

[kan-ee] / ˈkæn i /

ADJECTIVE

clever, artful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adroit astute cagey cautious discreet frugal ingenious intelligent judicious prudent shrewd skillful sly subtle wise

WEAK

able acute careful circumspect cunning dexterous foxy having fancy footwork hep knowing nimble-witted perspicacious quick quick-witted sagacious slick slippery smart smooth street smart streetwise wary watchful with it worldly-wise

Antonyms

STRONGEST

awkward careless foolish hasty honest idiotic ignorant imbecile imprudent incautious inept open rash reckless stupid thoughtless uncareful unintelligent unskilled unwise

WEAK

silly

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.

Instead it emerged from a web of relationships Canny had formed in the traditional music world, with many of the musicians already aware of each other's work.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

The previous year Father Michael Canny, a senior priest in Derry, condemned bonfires across the city, including in the Galliagh area, as "a nuisance".

From BBC • Aug. 8, 2023

In arguing for bail, Canny said that Momeni was not a flight risk and would not leave the two people he loves most, his sister and mother.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 31, 2023

A plea hearing on Tuesday was continued until May 18 after Momeni’s defense attorney, Paula Canny, asked for more time.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2023

Immediate orders were issued by the king for the arrest of the Knight of Canny.

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine, Vol. 1. No 1, June 1850 by Various

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