Definition

A type of dishonest or tricky behavior, often involving deceit or mischief.

Example

The politician was accused of knavery for his underhanded tactics during the campaign.

Conversation

Did you hear about the prank they pulled at the party last night?

Yeah, it was pure knavery!

I can't believe they got away with it so easily.

Right? It just shows how crafty some people can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Knavery → It originates from the Middle English 'knave' (meaning a male servant or a dishonest man) combined with the suffix '-ery' (meaning a state or condition). The word 'knavery' refers to the state of being a knave, often implying deceitful or dishonest behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'knave' as someone who is dishonest, and the '-ery' indicates a state or condition, so 'knavery' means the condition of being dishonest.

Visually Confused Words