This is the 14234th most frequent German word.
heimtückisch
Deceitful, treacherous, or insidious.
In this sentence, 'heimtückisch' is used to describe the scheming or deceptive nature of the cat's behavior, suggesting an element of cunning or calculated intention.
Der Kater lauerte heimtückisch auf die Maus.
The cat lay in ambush, treacherously, for the mouse.
Here, 'heimtückische' characterizes the disease as devious or harmful in a hidden way, especially as its symptoms are not immediately evident, making it a metaphorical and descriptive use of the word.
Die heimtückische Krankheit zeigte anfangs keine Symptome.
The insidious disease showed no initial symptoms.
In this context, 'heimtückischen' describes the words with a tone of betrayal or malicious intent, enhancing the emotional weight and the perceived traitorous nature of the person's words.