Cagiest

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Characterizing someone who is evasive or secretive in their responses; displaying a tendency to withhold information or be noncommittal in conversation; demonstrating a reluctance to share thoughts or details openly with others
2. Pertaining to an individual who uses ambiguity or indirectness to avoid revealing their true feelings or opinions; reflecting a cautious approach to dialogue and interaction; suggesting a preference for keeping personal matters private
3. Describing a manner of communication that is cryptic or reserved, often to maintain an air of mystery; exhibiting a way of engaging that prioritizes discretion over transparency; showing an inclination to dodge straightforward questions or inquiries

Etymology: "Cagiest" is the superlative of "cagy", so it is the form that means most evasive or most wary about committing oneself. Its history runs entirely through "cagy", which is the word that carries the story. The superlative simply adds the "-est" ending that English uses for the most extreme degree of an adjective, so "cagiest" describes whoever shows the most guardedness of all in a group.

Synonyms: most cautious, most wary, most shrewd, most discreet, most prudent

Antonyms: least cautious, most careless, most reckless, most naive