Cunninger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cunninger

[หˆkสŒn.ษชล‹.ษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing character

Cunninger is a comparative form of the adjective 'cunning', which describes someone who is skilled at achieving their goals through deceit and cleverness. A cunning person typically uses their intelligence and shrewdness to manipulate situations to their advantage. This quality often implies a level of craftiness that is not necessarily malevolent but can be used in deceitful ways. People may view cunning individuals with a mix of admiration and suspicion, as their cleverness can be both impressive and morally ambiguous.

Synonyms

cleverer, craftier, slyer.

Examples of usage

  • He was cunninger than his rivals.
  • In the game, the cunninger player usually wins.
  • She developed cunninger strategies to outsmart her opponents.

Translations

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Origin of 'cunninger'

The word 'cunning' comes from the Middle English word 'cuninge' or 'coning', which is derived from the Old Norse 'konungr', meaning 'king' or 'wise'. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify skill or knowledge in a specific area. By the late Middle Ages, it began to take on a more negative connotation associated with deceit and trickery. The use of 'cunning' to describe shrewd and crafty behavior highlights a duality in its meaningโ€”while it denotes intelligence and skill, it also suggests a willingness to employ untrustworthy tactics. In comparative forms like 'cunninger', the emphasis is placed on an increased level of these qualities. This makes the word particularly useful in literature and conversation when discussing characters who excel in manipulation and cleverness.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,643, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.