Leary

/'liəri/
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Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Wary, suspicious, or distrustful: The primary meaning of "leary" describes a state of being cautious, hesitant, or distrustful towards someone or something. It implies a sense of guardedness.
    • Slang: Under the influence of drugs; intoxicated: In informal, dated slang, "leary" can describe someone who is high or intoxicated, particularly by drugs.
Usage Notes
  • The standard and most common spelling in modern English is "leery". "Leary" is a recognized variant spelling but is less frequent.
  • It is typically followed by the preposition "of" when expressing suspicion or wariness (e.g., leary of strangers).
  • The slang meaning related to intoxication is now considered archaic and is rarely used in contemporary language.
Examples
  • Adjective (Wary):
    • She was leary of making a quick decision without more information.
    • Investors are leary of putting money into unstable markets.
  • Adjective (Slang, Intoxicated):
    • After taking the strange pills, he felt completely leary and disoriented. (Historical/dated usage)
Advanced Usage
  • "to be leary about": To have doubts or concerns regarding a specific matter.
    • I'm a bit leary about the safety of this old equipment.
  • "to grow/become leary": To develop a sense of distrust or caution over time.
    • The public has grown leary of the company's environmental promises.
Variants and Related Words
  • Leery (adj): The preferred modern spelling with the same meaning (wary, suspicious).
  • Wary (adj): Cautious about possible dangers or problems. A close synonym.
  • Chary (adj): Cautiously or suspiciously reluctant. A more formal synonym.
  • Distrustful (adj): Having a lack of trust.
Synonyms
  • Suspicious: Having or showing a cautious distrust.
  • Cautious: Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.
  • Hesitant: Tentative, unsure, or slow to act.
  • Skeptical: Not easily convinced; having doubts.
Antonyms
  • Trusting: Showing a willingness to believe that someone is good or honest.
  • Gullible: Easily persuaded to believe something; credulous.
  • Confident: Feeling or showing certainty about something.
Word Origin and Notes
  • The origin of "leery" (and its variant "leary") is uncertain. It may derive from a dialectal English word or be related to an old verb meaning "to look askance." It appeared in the late 17th century.
  • Important Distinction: Do not confuse this common adjective with the proper noun Leary (as in Timothy Leary, the psychologist referenced in the context). They are homophones but completely different words. The adjective "leary/leery" is unrelated to the surname.
Noun
  1. United States psychologist who experimented with psychoactive drugs (including LSD) and became a well-known advocate of their use (1920-1996)

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