wicked, evil, malevolent → clever, wise 1 realization Unique
NEW Realization 1 (ID: 49222)
type Semantic evolution
language 1 Middle English
language 2 English
lexeme 1 shreued
lexeme 2 shrewd
meaning 1 wicked, depraved, malicious, evil
direction →
meaning 2 having or showing the insight, intelligence, and understanding to make good judgments about practical matters (Merriam-Webster)

a shrewd tactician and highly-skilled negotiator
reference Harper's Etymonline
comment

© Anna A. Zalizniak et al. 2000-2026