Slippery: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe surfaces that are difficult to stand or walk on due to lack of friction, often because of water, oil, or other lubricants.

• Be careful after the rain; the sidewalk is very slippery
• The floor became slippery after the oil spill

Describes surfaces that are even and without roughness, can be pleasant to touch and not necessarily difficult to walk on.

• The table has a very smooth finish
• He has smooth skin

Indicates surfaces or objects that are covered with water or another liquid, which may or may not be slippery.

• My shoes are wet from the rain
• The bathroom floor is wet after a shower

Specifically refers to surfaces covered with a thin layer of ice, making them dangerous to walk on, usually during winter.

• The roads are icy today, so drive slowly
• Her hands felt icy cold after playing in the snow

Describing a surface that is difficult to stand on due to a lack of friction, or describing a person who is difficult to catch or pin down, often in a dishonest way.

• The roads were very slippery after the rain
• He is a slippery politician who always avoids answering tough questions

Describing someone or something that cannot be relied upon because they are likely to be dishonest or unreliable. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• He proved to be untrustworthy when he lied about his alibi
• Don't leave your belongings with her; she's untrustworthy

Describing someone who uses dishonest tricks and methods to achieve their goals; often implies a more calculated and clever form of deceit.

• Her devious plan to win the promotion involved spreading rumors about her competitors
• The criminal was known for his devious methods

Describing someone who behaves or moves in a secretive, sly way, usually to avoid detection. Generally, it implies underhanded actions.

• The sneaky cat stole a piece of fish from the table
• She was being sneaky about her surprise party plans

Used to describe someone who seems to be dishonest or untrustworthy by their behavior or appearance. Often has a negative connotation.

• The man looked shifty, constantly glancing around as if he had something to hide
• His shifty smile made me doubt his intentions