chary

One entry found for chary.

Main Entry: chary
Pronunciation: 'cher-E
Function: adjective
Inflected Form(s): chari·er; -est
Etymology: Middle English, sorrowful, dear, from Old English cearig sorrowful, from caru sorrow -- more at CARE
1 archaic : DEAR, TREASURED
2 : discreetly cautious: as a : hesitant and vigilant about dangers and risks b : slow to grant, accept, or expend <a person very chary of compliments>
synonym see CAUTIOUS
- chari·ly /'cher-&-lE/ adverb