medium
The wary rabbit stayed near its burrow when it heard footsteps.
What does Wary mean?
Wary means careful and unsure because something may not be safe or trustworthy.
Dictionary definition
Careful and unsure because something may not be safe or trustworthy.
Example sentences
Wary in a sentence
Writing practice
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Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Wary
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does wary mean?
Wary means careful and unsure because something may not be safe or trustworthy.
Practice 2
Which word is closest in meaning to wary?
Cautious is close in meaning to wary in this context.
Practice 3
Which sentence best shows the meaning of wary?
This sentence gives clues that show the meaning of wary.
Practice complete
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Wary
Voice settings
Sounds like
wair · ee · strongest beat: wair
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordWary.
Partadjective.
MeaningWary means careful and unsure because something may not be safe or trustworthy.
ExampleExample: The wary rabbit stayed near its burrow when it heard footsteps.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- wair · ee
- Strongest beat
- wair
- Ending
- ee
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on wair.
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Synonyms
Words like Wary
cautiousUse when someone is careful about possible risk.
Antonyms
Opposite words
trustingUse when someone believes something is safe or honest.
Synonym practice
Want to practice wary synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The editorial adopted a wary tone toward the new claim," then compare close word choices. Practice wary synonyms.
Word family
Wary word family
Base word
wary
noun
wariness
A careful feeling about possible danger.
adverb
warily
In a careful or cautious way.
Related words
Explore related words
Student support
Understand Wary
Hint for students
Look for clues that show careful watching or possible danger.
Common mix-up
Wary is not the same as scared; it means careful because something may be risky.
Try it in class or at home
Read the model sentence and underline the clue words that show the feeling or trait. Then write a new sentence that shows wary without using the word wary.
Teacher prompt
Ask students to explain this model sentence: "The wary rabbit stayed near its burrow when it heard footsteps." What clues show what wary means?
Word category
Explore more feelings words
This word is part of WordHive's feelings words collection. Browse more emotion words, compare close meanings, and practice using them in sentences.
Learning activities
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