I. ˈkə-niŋ adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from present participle of can know
Date: 14th century
1. : dexterous or crafty in the use of special resources (as skill or knowledge) or in attaining an end
a cunning plotter
2. : displaying keen insight
a cunning observation
3. : characterized by wiliness and trickery
cunning schemes
4. : prettily appealing : cute
a cunning little kitten
Synonyms: see clever , sly
• cun·ning·ly -niŋ-lē adverb
• cun·ning·ness noun
II. noun
Date: 14th century
1. obsolete
a. : knowledge , learning
b. : magic art
2. : dexterous skill and subtlety (as in inventing, devising, or executing)
high-ribbed vault…with perfect cunning framed — William Wordsworth
3. : craft , slyness
Synonyms: see art