emotional intelligence

noun

: the ability to recognize, understand, and deal skillfully with one's own emotions and the emotions of others (as by regulating one's emotions or by showing empathy and good judgment in social interactions)

A large part of emotional intelligence is being able to think about and empathize with how other people are feeling. This often involves considering how you would respond if you were in the same situation.

—Kendra Cherry

We know that young children learn to identify, explain, and regulate their emotions, but we know much less about how children learn these things. They undoubtedly acquire some of their emotional intelligence from adults–—parents, teachers, and coaches, for example.

—Lawrence T. White

… thousands of workers during the "Great Resignation" discovered a new road map to success: being able to recognize and walk away from abusive situations. … Empathy, respectfulness and emotional intelligence are hallmarks of leaders for whom people enjoy working.

—Karla L. Miller

—abbreviation EI

called also emotional quotient

Examples of emotional intelligence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, Newman said, only children often demonstrated generosity, social skills and emotional intelligence. —Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today, 26 Sep. 2025

Von Ahn’s emphasis on culture and character over credentials aligns with growing industry focus on emotional intelligence and soft skills. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 24 Sep. 2025

Constantly blaming others when mistakes are made, or obstacles arise, is a surefire sign that someone doesn’t have emotional intelligence — a trait with a strong correlation to workplace success — according to bestselling authors and communication experts Kathy and Ross Petras. —Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2025

Additional cornerstone programs are included in Culley’s Leadership Impact Series, where participants dive into how emotional intelligence shapes decision-making, communication, and team dynamics. —Kevin Kruse, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for emotional intelligence

• counterintelligence