First Known Use: 1596
Dictionary
1canny
adjective can·ny \ˈka-nē\
: very clever and able to make intelligent decisions
can·ni·ercan·ni·est
Full Definition of CANNY
2
chiefly Scottish a : careful, steady; also : restrained b : quiet, snug <then canny, in some cozy place, they close the day — Robert Burns>
— can·ni·ly \ˈka-nəl-ē\ adverb
— can·ni·ness \ˈka-nē-nəs\ noun
See canny defined for English-language learners
See canny defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CANNY
1can
Related to CANNY
- Synonyms
- astute, shrewd, clear-eyed, clear-sighted, hard-boiled, hardheaded, heady, knowing, savvy, sharp, sharp-witted, smart
- Antonyms
- unknowing
2canny
adverb
CANNY Defined for Kids
canny
adjective can·ny \ˈka-nē\
can·ni·ercan·ni·est
Definition of CANNY for Kids
: clever especially in taking advantage of opportunities : shrewd <a canny decision> <canny shoppers>
— can·ni·ly \ˈka-nə-lē\ adverb
Learn More About CANNY
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: canny momentPrevious Word in the Dictionary: cannulateAll Words Near: canny
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up canny? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).