canny etymology

Etymology:

  • Old Irish: canannach
  • Middle Irish: canandach
  • Proto-Celtic: *kanant-ako-s

Meaning:

  • "shrewd," "skillful"

Origin:

The word "canny" originated in the Old Irish language and was originally used to describe someone who was cunning or resourceful. It later evolved to mean "prudent" or "wise."

The Proto-Celtic root *kanant-ako-s is thought to be related to:

  • Welsh: canu ("to sing")
  • Breton: kanañ ("to sing")
  • Latin: canere ("to sing")

This suggests that the word "canny" may have originally referred to someone who had the ability to outwit or persuade others using their words.

Usage:

Today, the word "canny" is commonly used to describe someone who is:

  • Prudent
  • Wise
  • Shrewd
  • Resourceful
  • Cunning

It can be used in a positive or negative sense, depending on the context.

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