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Sleight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sleight

[slaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

skillful trickery

Sleight refers to the use of dexterity or cunning, especially in performing tricks or illusions in theatrical entertainment or magic. It implies a level of skill that enables someone to deceive an audience through quick and clever maneuvers.

Synonyms

dexterity, magic, sleight of hand, trickery.

Examples of usage

  • He amazed the crowd with his sleight of hand.
  • The magician's sleight left everyone in awe.
  • She performed a beautiful sleight that captivated the audience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'sleight'

The word 'sleight' traces its origins to the Old Norse word 'sleit', which means 'to glide' or 'to stumble'. This was adopted into Middle English as 'sleyht', referring to skill or dexterity. The transition from a meaning related to gliding or falling to that of skillful manipulation highlights the development of the concept around precision and cleverness in performance arts, such as stage magic. By the late 14th century, 'sleight' was commonly associated with 'sleight of hand', which specifically denotes manual dexterity used in conjuring or trickery. Essentially, the word evolved to signify a finesse that allows practitioners of magic to execute seemingly impossible feats, manipulating their audience's perception through illusion.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,962, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.