Definition

Describing someone or something that is sneaky or dishonest, often trying to avoid directness or responsibility.

Example

His weasely behavior made it hard to trust him during the negotiations.

Conversation

Did you see how he tried to avoid answering the question?

Yeah, it was pretty weasely of him.

I thought he was going to get called out for it, honestly.

Same here! It was so obvious he was being dishonest.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Weasely is derived from the word 'weasel' (from Old English 'wēasle', meaning the small carnivorous mammal) combined with the suffix '-ly' (meaning in the manner of). The term 'weasely' describes behavior that is sneaky or deceitful, akin to the characteristics often attributed to a weasel.

Memory Tip

Think of the sneaky nature of a 'weasel' — when someone acts 'weasely', they are behaving in a deceitful manner, just like the animal.

Visually Confused Words