Guileful: meaning, definitions and examples

describing character

Guileful refers to someone who is cunning or deceitful, using cleverness to achieve their goals, often at the expense of others. It implies a sense of craftiness and the ability to outsmart others through trickery or manipulation. This word often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the individual may not be trustworthy. In literature, guileful characters are often portrayed as adversaries or villains, adept at using their wits to deceive rather than to foster honest interactions.

crafty, cunning, deceitful, sly, tricky

Examples of usage

• The guileful merchant tricked the villagers into buying fake goods.

• His guileful nature made it difficult to tell when he was being sincere.

• She used her guileful charm to navigate the complex social dynamics.

• The guileful fox outsmarted the hound.