Cunningness refers to the ability to achieve goals through cleverness and deceit. It often involves using intelligence and resourcefulness to manipulate situations or people for personal gain. While cunningness can be seen as a skill, it is frequently associated with negative traits like dishonesty and trickery. In various contexts, such as literature and psychology, cunningness is often depicted in characters like foxes or tricksters. These figures exemplify the idea of outsmarting others, showcasing both the potential benefits and moral dilemmas that come with being cunning.