Definitions

wary

[wair-ee] / ˈwɛər i /

ADJECTIVE

careful, cautious

Synonyms

STRONGEST

attentive circumspect considerate distrustful frugal leery prudent suspicious vigilant watchful

WEAK

alert cagey calculating canny chary discreet doubting gingerly guarded handling with kid gloves heedful keeping on one's toes on guard on the lookout on the qui vive provident safe saving sly sparing thinking twice thrifty unwasteful walking on eggs watching one's step watching out wide-awake

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless certain inattentive incautious inconsiderate indiscreet negligent

WEAK

foolish heedless rash reckless

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.

Wary of China's navy build-up, US ally Australia has reshaped its defence force in recent years to focus on its missile strike capability and deterring an adversary from its northern approaches.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

Wary of counterrevolution, the patriots were prepared to maintain dominance by whatever means necessary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Wary of the heavy police presence in the area, she said she drove extra cautiously.

From Salon • Nov. 4, 2025

Wary locals still remember the impact of the unloading of toxic waste at the port of Abidjan nearly two decades ago.

From BBC • Jan. 7, 2025

Wary, he stalked about her in a circle, sniffing.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

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