Shifty-eyed

Describing a person whose eyes move quickly and evasively, suggesting dishonesty, untrustworthiness, or a hidden agenda. This behavior often indicates a reluctance to meet another person's gaze directly, hinting at deception, guilt, or discomfort. The shifting gaze is usually a subtle signal that something is being concealed or that the person is unsure of their position. A 'shifty-eyed' individual can also appear sly, cunning, and lacking in sincerity. This behavior often stems from a fear of exposure or a desire to manipulate a situation or people.

Shifty-eyed meaning with examples

• The detective, a seasoned professional, noticed the suspect's shifty-eyed glances as he described his alibi. His eyes darted around the room, avoiding eye contact, which instantly raised the detective's suspicion. The details seemed plausible enough, but the suspect's body language, particularly his eyes, gave him away and the officer proceeded to look deeper into the details.
• During the tense negotiations, the politician's shifty-eyed demeanor gave the impression of an attempt to manipulate or mislead. His eyes flickered nervously, never settling on the face of the other negotiator, implying he was concealing something. Their expressions often conveyed a lack of transparency and caused considerable distrust, making a resolution difficult, which was likely his intention.
• After the accusation of wrongdoing, the employee became shifty-eyed when discussing the matter. He quickly looked from the accuser to the floor and back again. He seemed evasive, making the boss question his integrity and honesty. The employee's inability to meet her gaze and the quick shifts in his gaze further fueled the boss's suspicions, prompting her to investigate further.
• The con artist, with his shifty-eyed approach, expertly fooled his victims. His eyes constantly scanned his surroundings. He would tell his story and shift his eyes to see if the potential mark was interested. His ability to deceive was partly due to this shifty eyed tactic and his ability to sell a convincing story. This helped to create a sense of distrust and watchfulness among his targets.