Definition of ingeniousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective ingenious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of ingenious are adroit, clever, and cunning. While all these words mean "having or showing practical wit or skill in contriving," ingenious suggests the power of inventing or discovering a new way of accomplishing something.

an ingenious software engineer

In what contexts can adroit take the place of ingenious?

The meanings of adroit and ingenious largely overlap; however, adroit often implies a skillful use of expedients to achieve one's purpose in spite of difficulties.

an adroit negotiator

When is it sensible to use clever instead of ingenious?

The words clever and ingenious can be used in similar contexts, but clever stresses physical or mental quickness, deftness, or great aptitude.

a person clever with horses

When might cunning be a better fit than ingenious?

Although the words cunning and ingenious have much in common, cunning implies great skill in constructing or creating.

a filmmaker cunning in his use of special effects

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ingenious Shot in Technicolor, occurring in real time, and edited to appear as four long takes, everything from Birdman (2014) to The Bear likely wouldn't exist without Hitchcock's ingenious work here circa 1940. Eric Farwell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 Bottura’s success in this case was, of course, largely tied to his ascendent fame and talent for finding ingenious solutions to problems, some obviously gastronomic and others less so. Literary Hub, 11 June 2026 Essentially, the question for the justices is whether this new technique is ingenious, Orwellian, or both? Nina Totenberg, NPR, 9 June 2026 Others impressed by their ingenious use to narrate effect of a Mallorcan setting. John Hopewell, Variety, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ingenious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingenious
Adjective
  • Steven Soderbergh was determined to publish his inventive work Production 02074 exactly 51 years after the launch of its subject, Steven Spielberg‘s 1975 classic Jaws.
    Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 22 June 2026
  • Sunnei emerged on the international scene with unexpected and inventive show concepts, and the designers share with Franco Moschino a tongue-in-cheek attitude to fashion, peppering their collections with fashion commentary.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 21 June 2026
Adjective
  • This is an Edwardian- inspired new build, so the rooms are large (starting at 290 square feet) with clever details throughout, such as reassuringly spacious showers and barista-style Morning coffee machines—a welcome upgrade on noisy Nespresso units.
    Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 19 June 2026
  • With a boost from Randy Newman’s clever score, the Buzz Lightyear sections are hilarious.
    Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • Film Independent is expanding the Film Independent Spirit Awards with the introduction of the Robert Redford Environmental Vision Award, a new honor recognizing narrative film and television works that engage with environmental issues through innovative and impactful storytelling.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 23 June 2026
  • Companion pieces in black titanium and white diamonds introduce a contemporary contrast while reinforcing the collection's emphasis on innovative materials and craftsmanship.
    Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Ideas need crisp notes as the temperamental Moon in your 9th House opposes imaginative Neptune in your 3rd House, bringing visions and messages together.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026
  • With its whimsical interiors, hidden passageways, and sweeping harbor views, Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House has become one of New England's most imaginative seaside estates.
    Rachel Holt, CBS News, 21 June 2026
Adjective
  • With several injuries, the Sparks took a creative approach to acquire healthy players.
    Marisa Ingemi, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • While obviously, the lyrical sentiment contains romantic implications, the veritable love affair is really between McCartney and Lennon, their friendship and creative partnership an enviable match.
    Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • Getty Images The Philadelphia Phillies have built much of their recent success around a deep and talented starting rotation, so much so that the team was able to confidently move on from a star starter before this season began.
    Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026
  • He is lured by the sound of music down a Montmartre street to Nicholas de Lenfent (Joseph Potter), an old friend from his village who has grown up to be a talented violinist and rakish twink.
    Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 22 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ingenious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingenious. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

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