- Main Entry:
- in·tel·li·gent
- Pronunciation:
-
\in-ˈte-lə-jənt\
- Function:
- adjective
- Etymology:
- Latin intelligent-, intelligens, present participle of intelligere, intellegere to understand, from inter- + legere to gather, select — more at legend
- Date:
- 1509
1 a: having or indicating a high or satisfactory degree of intelligence and mental capacity b: revealing or reflecting good judgment or sound thought : skillful2 a: possessing intelligence b: guided or directed by intellect : rational3 a: guided or controlled by a computer; especially : using a built-in microprocessor for automatic operation, for processing of data, or for achieving greater versatility — compare dumb 7 b: able to produce printed material from digital signals <an intelligent copier>
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in·tel·li·gen·tial \-ˌte-lə-ˈjen(t)-shəl\ adjective —
in·tel·li·gent·ly \-ˈte-lə-jənt-lē\ adverb synonyms intelligent,
clever,
alert,
quick-witted mean mentally keen or quick.
intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems
<an intelligent person could assemble it fast>.
clever implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities
<clever with words>.
alert stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding
<alert to new technology>.
quick-witted implies promptness in finding answers in debate or in devising expedients in moments of danger or challenge
<no match for his quick-witted opponent>.
