cunning

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.

As Simon Elliott describes in his biography “The African Emperor,” Severus was a mercurial and contradictory character, capable by turns of savagery, cunning, wit and generosity, and always blessed with a sense of the theatrical.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Known as "the crocodile" because of his political cunning, his final five-year term is due to expire in 2028.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

As Thia tries to complete the mission she failed alongside her synthetic sister, Fanning relishes the chance to play the far more violent and cunning counterpart, Tessa.

From Salon • Jan. 24, 2026

A dizzyingly beautiful one and a disarmingly talented one — with all the accompanying cunning, love complexity and joy it means to be human.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2026

“Here,” I say, drawing out the folded-up note and smoothing it against the top of a cunning little table with carved bird feet for legs.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black