Definition

Someone who is clever and careful, often avoiding giving direct answers or revealing too much information.

Example

The cagey politician avoided answering the question directly.

Conversation

I noticed that Sarah has been acting a bit cagey lately.

Yeah, I thought the same thing; she seems hesitant to share details.

Maybe she's just being careful about what she reveals.

Could be! Sometimes people are just cagey for good reason.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cagey → This word originates from the American English term 'cagey', which is derived from 'cage' (meaning an enclosure) combined with the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). The term describes someone who is characterized by being secretive or wary, as if they are enclosed or trapped in their thoughts.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'characterized by' being secretive or cautious, like a person in a 'cage' who is careful about what they reveal.

Visually Confused Words