1. in a shrewd, cunning, or slyly humorous manner
Usage: chiefly British

Examples

• He pawkily suggested that perhaps the boss hadn’t thought through the new policy.
• She smiled pawkily when asked about her secret recipe.
• The old farmer pawkily negotiated a better price for his land.
• He pawkily avoided giving a direct answer to the reporter’s question.
• The comedian pawkily delivered his punchline with perfect timing.
• She pawkily hinted that she knew more than she was letting on.