online vocabulary.com

Cagey - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Cagey means being cautious, secretive, or cleverly evasive to avoid giving away information. It often describes someone who is wary or strategic in their responses to protect their interests.

cagey

/ˈkeɪdʒi/ /ˈkeɪdʒi/

Definition:

Reluctant to give information, cautious or secretive to avoid revealing intentions.

Synonyms:

wary, cautious, guarded, shrewd

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

open, frank, transparent

Common Collocations:

cagey response, cagey about plans, cagey behavior

Derivatives:

cagily, caginess

Usage Tips:

Use "cagey" to describe someone who avoids giving direct answers or revealing too much.

Common Phrases:

play it cagey, cagey as a fox, stay cagey

Etymology:

Originated in early 20th century US slang, possibly from "cage" meaning to confine or restrain.

Examples:

  • 1. She was cagey about her future plans.
  • 2. The politician gave a cagey answer to avoid controversy.
  • 3. He’s always cagey when asked personal questions.
  • 4. The CEO remained cagey during the interview.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS