What is cagey? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of cagey in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of cagey

cageyadjective

thận trọng

/ˈkeɪdʒi//ˈkeɪdʒi/

Where does the word cagey come from?

The word "cagey" is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in the United States. It is likely a combination of "cage," meaning a confined or restricted space, and the suffix "-y," which is often used to form adjectives. One possible etymology of the word "cagey" is that it came from the phrase "cagey about," which was used to describe someone who was secretive or evasive. Over time, the phrase may have been shortened to simply "cagey," with the meaning shifting to describe someone who is cautious, suspicious, or evasive in their words or actions. The word "cagey" gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in the context of politics and espionage. It is now commonly used in a variety of contexts to describe someone who is secretive, uncooperative, or difficult to read.

Vocabulary summary cagey

typeadjective

meaning(US, colloquial) secretive, not open; unapproachable

meaningclever, cunning, not easily fooled

meaningnot determined; evasive (in answering)

Example of vocabulary cageynamespace

  • The politician's responses were cagey during the press conference, leaving the audience uncertain about his stance on the issue.
  • The salesman's demeanor became increasingly cagey as the negotiation progressed, making it clear that he was hiding something.
  • The thief's behavior in the interrogation room was decidedly cagey, leading the detectives to suspect that he knew more than he was admitting.
  • The witness's responses during the police investigation were cagey, leaving the officers unsure if they could trust her account of the events.
  • The suspect's body language and choice of words both indicated that she was being cagey and trying to hide something.

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