wile

Wile is a term that can refer to several distinct subjects that share the same name. It functions as a proper noun in some contexts—most commonly as a surname or place name—and, when written in lowercase, as the English noun wile meaning a trick or stratagem. The intended meaning depends on context.

As a surname, Wile appears in English-language genealogical and historical records. The origin of the surname is not tied to a single widely recognized region, and it may be related to variants such as Wylde or Wyle found in different communities over time.

Wile is also used as a place name in some locales, typically for small communities, geographic features, or historic sites. These uses are usually of local significance and do not denote major cities or regions.

In English, wile (lowercase) denotes a cunning trick or stratagem. The word derives from older Germanic roots and is encountered in literature and discourse to describe deception or slyly contrived actions.

See also related spellings and names such as Wylde and Wyle, which may appear in similar contexts.