Main Entry: in·ge·nious

Pronunciation: \in-ˈjēn-yəs\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English ingenyous, from Middle French ingenieus, from Latin ingeniosus, from ingenium natural capacity — more at engine

Date: 15th century

1 obsolete : showing or calling for intelligence, aptitude, or discernment
2 : marked by especial aptitude at discovering, inventing, or contriving
3 : marked by originality, resourcefulness, and cleverness in conception or execution <an ingenious contraption>

synonyms see clever

— in·ge·nious·ly adverb

— in·ge·nious·ness noun