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.

Despite Silicon Valley’s enthusiasm for AI’s promise, the broader population has become wary, fearing widespread job losses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Getting assurances from the government is helpful at a time when Americans are wary of AI.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

At the same time, people in F1 are wary of speaking publicly on the matter, for fear of recriminations.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

They were wary — because they’re smart — of someone from Hollywood coming in to document what they were doing and asking questions.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

She looked from the salad to me and back again, a wary look on her face.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

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