Synonyms for

Sneaky

Verb / ˈsni:ki: / Another word for sneaky — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Sneaky means behaving in a secret and dishonest way.

Synonyms & similar words

stealthy surreptitious furtive underhanded sneak underhand sly deceitful crafty cunning stealthy scheming tricky underhanded dishonest furtive secretive shifty untrustworthy conniving manipulative artful treacherous sneaking two-faced duplicitous

Synonyms by register

Formal

furtive surreptitious covert clandestine

Informal

shifty cunning sly tricky underhanded

Literary

wily guileful artful

Antonyms

honest open direct frank straightforward aboveboard transparent

Common collocations

  • sneaky behavior
  • sneaky way
  • sneaky move
  • sneaky person
  • sneaky plan
  • sneaky tactics
  • sneaky look

Word family

noun sneak
verb sneak
adjective sneaky
adverb sneakily

Usage note

Sneaky often implies a negative connotation of deception or underhandedness. It is generally informal but can be used in more formal contexts to describe actions that are deliberately hidden.

Example sentences

  1. The sneaky fox stole the chicken from the coop.
  2. I caught my little brother being sneaky and trying to eat my candy.
  3. The spy was very sneaky and managed to get the secret information without being noticed.
  4. The burglar was very sneaky and managed to break into the house without being heard.
  5. The politician was accused of being sneaky and making secret deals behind closed doors.

Quotes

  • Sneaky and dishonest people often think they are clever, but they eventually get caught.
  • Being sneaky is not a good way to win friends or earn trust.
  • The sneaky tactics of some politicians can be very frustrating for the voters.

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