wile — a cunning trick or stratagem used to ensnare or deceive
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a cunning trick or stratagem used to ensnare or deceive
Pronunciation (IPA): /waɪl/
Example Sentences
- The con artist's wiles fooled even the smartest investors.
- My cat uses her adorable wiles to get extra treats.
- Politicians often employ various wiles to win votes.
wile
NOUN[/waɪl/]
a cunning trick or stratagem used to ensnare or deceive
The fox uses every wile to trick the farmer and steal the chickens.
Behind his charming smile and polished style lies a cunning wile.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Wile derives from Old Norse 'vél', meaning craft or device, and entered Middle English through Germanic linguistic influence. The word originally denoted a magical or crafty means, gradually evolving to signify a cunning stratagem or deceptive trick.
Breakdown
Old Norse 'vél' (craft, device, stratagem) → Middle English 'wile'. The root conveys the sense of skillful contrivance that came to emphasize deception rather than neutral craftsmanship.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The con artist's wiles fooled even the smartest investors.”
“My cat uses her adorable wiles to get extra treats.”
“Politicians often employ various wiles to win votes.”
“She tried to wile her way out of doing homework by complimenting the teacher.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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