Definition & Meaning of "carny"in English

What is the origin of the term "carny" and how is it used?

"Carny" is an English slang term that emerged in the early 20th century in the United States to describe someone who works in traveling carnivals. Over time, it gained a figurative sense for a shady, untrustworthy, or deceitful person, based on the stereotype of carnival workers as hustlers or swindlers. The term appears in literature, journalism, and informal speech to label someone suspected of dishonesty or trickery. It is derogatory but context-dependent, sometimes playful or humorous, though often intended to warn or criticize.