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.

It will take more than stolen KitKats and canny marketing to turn the company around.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

This 1768 painting of the silversmith and American revolutionary is both a tribute to the dignity of craftsmen and a work of canny political symbolism.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Her versatility - she was threatening with the new ball and canny at the death - will be crucial at the World Cup.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

Once considered a canny innovator, and then, with his purchase of the flailing Washington Post, a white knight, he has since become the embodiment of capitalism run amok.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

In their circle, it was held to be no disgrace to import goods illegally, but rather sharp practice was accounted a sign of canny business acumen.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing canny

100 Top "SAT" Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Beowulf

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Bright Ideas: Synonyms For "Smart"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!