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

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Wary of further disruptions, the Taliban government is now hedging its bets with Iran, Central Asia -- and beyond.

From Barron's • Nov. 21, 2025

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 of approaching Hamlet, I hid myself beneath a nearby table covered with a long carpet.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

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