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Added 10 October 2026

leery

/ˈlɪəɹi/ adjective

First recorded: 1718 Wiktionary

adjective Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about leery at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

Cautious, suspicious, wary, hesitant, or nervous about something; having reservations or concerns.
Since he was bitten by a dog when he was young, he has always been leery of animals.
Sly; artful; knowing.
Leering; lecherous or unpleasant.

Origin

First attested in 1718, “untrustful, suspicious”, either from leer (“sideward look”) + -y, lear (“learning, knowledge”) + -y. More at leer, lear.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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