Sleight is a noun that can refer either to a deceitful kind of craftiness, or to skill and dexterity. It is typically found in the phrase "sleight of hand," or variations on that phrase (as in "sleight of pen").

SLEIGHT definition: skill; dexterity. See examples of sleight used in a sentence.

Slight and sleight sound the same, but things that are slight are little and light, and sleight means slyness or sneakiness. Slight is usually an adjective that describes things that are small, …

sleight (slaɪt) n. 1. skill; dexterity. 2. an artifice; stratagem. 3. cunning; craft.

Again and again, with only minor variations, we see this sleight of hand at work.

Slight, whether as an adjective or a verb, often denotes something minor or a form of disregard. Sleight, in contrast, pertains to dexterity or trickery, closely associated with skillful …

Feb 13, 2026 · Noun sleight (countable and uncountable, plural sleights) Cunning; craft; artful practice. (countable) An artful trick; sly artifice; a feat so dexterous that the manner of …

There are ten meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun sleight, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Sep 22, 2025 · Learn the difference between "slight" (minor, small, or disrespect) and "sleight" (skillful deception). Explore synonyms like minor, trifle, trickery, and dexterity.

Sleight refers to skill, dexterity, or cunning, often used to deceive or trick. It is mostly used in the phrase "sleight of hand," which typically describes a magician's skills in performing tricks that …