What does weasely mean?
Weasely is an adjective describing conduct that is crafty, cunning, or deliberately evasive. It typically characterizes excuses, answers, arguments, or behavior that evade a straightforward response or try to mislead without directly stating a falsehood. The word is especially appropriate when a person appears to address a question but uses vague, slippery language to avoid responsibility. It has a strongly negative connotation and is often used in political reporting, criticism, and discussion of dishonest negotiation. "Weasely" should generally be reserved for behavior judged to be evasive or manipulative; ordinary caution or a reluctance to discuss private information does not automatically deserve the label. Its familiar relative "weasel," meaning a sly or deceptive person, reflects the same figurative tradition. Together, these forms make "weasely" a useful word for identifying language that sounds responsive while functioning chiefly to avoid commitment or accountability.
adjectiveCrafty, cunning, or deceitfully evasive. It describes behavior or speech intended to avoid responsibility, mislead, or gain an advantage through trickery.
- Crafty, cunning, or deceitfully evasive, especially in behavior, speech, or argument.
"The politician's weasely answer did little to explain why the report had been delayed."
"His weasely reply shifted the blame without addressing any of the evidence."
"Rather than admit the mistake, she offered a weasely explanation that confused everyone."
Weasely names the art of slipping out of a difficult question without ever giving a straight answer.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of weasely
The word "weasely" was formed in the 19th century from "weasel" and the adjective-forming suffix "-ly." The expression relies on the traditional figurative sense of a weasel as a sly, elusive animal, and therefore describes behavior resembling that of a deceptive evader. The related forms "weaseling" and its variant spelling "weaselling" also derive from "weasel" and carry senses involving cunning or repeated evasion.
How weasely is actually used
The word is strongly negative and is often used to criticize someone's conduct or argumentative tactics. It is somewhat more literary than the more common word "evasive," and is especially common in British and American political and journalistic contexts.