- Main Entry:
- clev·er
- Pronunciation:
-
\ˈkle-vər\
- Function:
- adjective
- Etymology:
- Middle English cliver, perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Danish dialect kløver alert, skillful
- Date:
- circa 1595
1 a: skillful or adroit in using the hands or body : nimble <clever fingers> b: mentally quick and resourceful <a clever young lawyer>2: marked by wit or ingenuity <a clever solution> <a clever idea>3dialect a: good b: easy to use or handle
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clev·er·ish \-v(ə-)rish\ adjective —
clev·er·ly \-vər-lē\ adverb —
clev·er·ness \-vər-nəs\ noun synonyms clever,
adroit,
cunning,
ingenious mean having or showing practical wit or skill in contriving.
clever stresses physical or mental quickness, deftness, or great aptitude
<a person clever with horses>.
adroit often implies a skillful use of expedients to achieve one's purpose in spite of difficulties
<an adroit negotiator>.
cunning implies great skill in constructing or creating
<a filmmaker cunning in his use of special effects>.
ingenious suggests the power of inventing or discovering a new way of accomplishing something
<an ingenious software engineer>.
synonyms see in addition intelligent
