chary
UK[ˈtʃeəri]US[ˈtʃeri]
adj
cautious and careful about avoiding risks or dangers
adj
slow to give or spend; not generous
Etymology
the word 'chary' originates from the old english 'cearig', which itself stems from the proto-germanic 'karō', meaning 'care, sorrow'. this root is connected to the proto-indo-european 'ǵeh₂r-', signifying 'to shout, call', which evolved into concepts of crying out in grief or concern. the semantic journey moved from a state of sorrow and anxiety to one of watchful caution and carefulness, reflecting how deep concern manifests as prudent restraint. its modern sense of being cautious or sparing developed from this core idea of being full of care.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from the old english word 'cearig', meaning 'sorrowful, anxious, full of care'.
Examples
she is chary of lending money to people she doesn't know well.
the company is chary about making any large investments in the current economic climate.
he was chary with his praise, offering compliments only when truly deserved.