# sleight

/ˈsɫaɪt/ (US) · /slˈaɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sleight
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a clever trick or a skillful move, especially one that is hard to see. It often describes a small, quick action that hides a secret.

For teachers: a clever trick or a skillful, dexterous action, typically involving a quick, deceptive movement of the hands. Often used in the context of magic or sports to describe a subtle, effective maneuver.

## Examples

- The magician performed a sleight of hand to hide the card.
- The player's sleight of foot allowed him to change direction quickly and avoid the defender.
- While the overall strategy was sound, it was the subtle sleight of the legal team in the final hours of the trial that ultimately secured the acquittal.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.