crafty

IPA

Dictionary definition of crafty

Clever, resourceful, and skilled at using their intelligence and cunning to achieve their goals or solve problems.
"The crafty fox stealthily approached the henhouse, planning its next move."

Detailed meaning of crafty

A crafty individual is adept at thinking quickly and creatively, often employing strategies or methods that may be considered shrewd or sly. This adjective suggests a high level of ingenuity and inventiveness, as well as a propensity for strategic thinking and calculated actions. Crafty individuals are often associated with being clever in a deceptive or manipulative way, using their intelligence and wits to gain an advantage or outsmart others. However, craftiness can also be seen in a positive light, highlighting someone's ability to navigate complex situations, find innovative solutions, or excel in creative endeavors.

Example sentences containing crafty

1. She devised a crafty plan to outwit her opponents in the chess tournament.
2. The crafty magician astounded the audience with his clever tricks.
3. He had a crafty way of convincing people to do what he wanted.
4. The crafty thief managed to steal the valuable diamond without raising any alarms.
5. With a crafty smile, she slyly revealed her hidden talent.
6. The crafty negotiator always found a way to secure the best deal.

History and etymology of crafty

The adjective 'crafty,' which describes someone as clever, resourceful, and skilled in using their intelligence and cunning to achieve their goals or solve problems, has its origins in the word 'craft.' 'Craft' comes from the Old English word 'craeft,' which initially referred to strength or skill. As the meaning of 'craeft' expanded to encompass specialized skills and occupations, 'crafty' emerged to characterize individuals who applied their skills not only in a straightforward manner but also with a shrewd and cunning approach. It highlights the ability to employ one's expertise in a subtle and often strategic way, emphasizing the combination of skill and cleverness in accomplishing tasks or achieving desired outcomes.

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Further usage examples of crafty

1. The crafty detective pieced together the clues to solve the mysterious crime.
2. The crafty child managed to sneak an extra cookie without anyone noticing.
3. The crafty artist transformed ordinary materials into stunning works of art.
4. She used her crafty sewing skills to create a beautiful dress from scrap fabric.
5. The crafty entrepreneur came up with an innovative marketing strategy to boost sales.
6. The crafty detective solved the complex case with his keen observation.
7. A crafty strategist always finds a way to outsmart the competition.
8. She employed a crafty negotiation tactic to secure a favorable deal.
9. Crafty hackers exploited vulnerabilities in the system's security.
10. The crafty inventor devised a revolutionary new gadget.
11. A crafty escape plan allowed the prisoners to evade capture.
12. Crafty artists can turn ordinary materials into stunning creations.
13. The crafty cat managed to open the door with its clever paws.
14. A crafty politician knows how to win over constituents with charisma.
15. The crafty chef prepared a gourmet meal using simple ingredients.
16. The crafty entrepreneur saw an opportunity where others saw none.
17. Crafty spies operate discreetly to gather vital information.
18. Crafty individuals can adapt to challenging situations effortlessly.
19. The crafty competitor always finds a way to gain an advantage.
20. A crafty illusionist wows audiences with mind-bending tricks.
21. The crafty student aced the test through diligent preparation.
22. Crafty writers craft compelling stories that captivate readers.
23. The crafty angler caught the biggest fish of the day.
24. A crafty mechanic can fix almost any car problem with skill.