knowing

1 of 2

adjective

know·​ing ˈnō-iŋ 

1

: having or reflecting knowledge, information, or intelligence

2

a

: shrewdly and keenly alert : astute

a knowing observer

b

: indicating possession of exclusive inside knowledge or information

a knowing smile

3

: cognitive

4

: deliberate

knowing interference in the affairs of another

knowingly adverb

knowingness noun

knowing

2 of 2

noun

: acquaintance, cognizance

Synonyms

Adjective

• hip
• wise

Examples of knowing in a Sentence

Adjective

She looked at us in a knowing way.

exchanged a knowing look with her business partner during the sales presentation

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Elizabeth, in color, looks into the camera with a knowing, close-lipped smile. —Emily Harnett, Harper's Magazine, 26 Apr. 2024

But the story shows that even the most knowing girls can get caught up in affection and being seen and feeling that there’s something unique and special about them, especially when there’s larger questions looming about life and friendships and how other people see you. —Chloe Schama, Vogue, 8 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing knowing

• self-knowing

Kids Definition

knowing

adjective

know·​ing

ˈnō-iŋ

1

: having or showing special knowledge

a knowing smile

2

: shrewdly and keenly alert

3

: intentional

knowingly adverb

Legal Definition

knowing

adjective

know·​ing

1

: having or reflecting knowledge

a knowing and intelligent waiver of counsel

see also intelligent

2

: deliberate sense 2

knowing possession

knowing endangerment

compare mens rea

knowingly adverb