Main Entry: tal·ent

Pronunciation: \ˈta-lənt\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English talente, from Latin talenta, plural of talentum unit of weight or money, from Greek talanton pan of a scale, weight; akin to Greek tlēnai to bear; in senses 2–5, from the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14–30 — more at tolerate

Date: before 12th century

1 a : any of several ancient units of weight b : a unit of value equal to the value of a talent of gold or silver
2 archaic : a characteristic feature, aptitude, or disposition of a person or animal
3 : the natural endowments of a person
4 a : a special often athletic, creative, or artistic aptitude b : general intelligence or mental power : ability
5 : a person of talent or a group of persons of talent in a field or activity

synonyms see gift

— tal·ent·ed \-lən-təd\ adjective

— tal·ent·less \-lənt-ləs\ adjective