sleight of hand

noun phrase

Synonyms of sleight of handnext
1
a
: a cleverly executed trick or deception
b
: a conjuring trick requiring manual dexterity
2
a
: skill and dexterity in conjuring tricks
b
: adroitness in deception

Examples of sleight of hand in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Though the rest of the film is an excellent horror satire, the opening scene is pure sleight of hand. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 15 June 2026 Many believe the math is pulling some sleight of hand, but the trouble is, nobody can seem to agree on where the trick lies. — Jack Murtagh, Scientific American, 21 May 2026 This is a rhetorical sleight of hand that collapses on contact with basic facts. — Veronique De Rugy, Oc Register, 5 June 2026 Travelers who love a good sleight of hand can get excited thanks to a new immersive theater that just opened in Chicago. — Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sleight of hand

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sleight of hand was in 1593

Rhymes for sleight of hand

See All Rhymes for sleight of hand

Browse Nearby Words

sleight
sleight of hand
sleighty
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sleight of hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sleight%20of%20hand. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sleight of hand

1
: skill especially in juggling or magic tricks
2
: a magic or juggling trick requiring skill with the hands
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