sleight of hand

noun phrase

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

This cinematic sleight of hand creates a dynamic approach to human bodies in the realm of disability and gender dysphoria — first as fantasy metaphor, then as direct political confrontation. —Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 18 Feb. 2025

This sleight of hand is a highlight of the Chinese folk dance, Yangge, and is said to require a ton of practice. —New Atlas, 3 Feb. 2025

The intrigue: Other Democrats argued the memo rescission was simply a sleight of hand, and that the Trump administration is seeking to circumvent lawsuits while keeping certain funding frozen. —Zachary Basu, Axios, 29 Jan. 2025

Then there is the parallel arrest warrant for Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif, which is another sleight of hand. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for sleight of hand

• ampersand
• beforehand
• behindhand
• bottomland
• contraband
• countermand
• dixieland
• fairyland
• fatherland
• firebrand
• hinterland
• motherland

Kids Definition

sleight of hand

1

: skill especially in juggling or magic tricks

2

: a magic or juggling trick requiring skill with the hands