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 an era where AI is expected to automate countless tasks, human skills—like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and leadership—are becoming even more essential. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 June 2025

This emotional intelligence translates into better communication, better judgment, and stronger conflict resolution skills – all criteria for leadership roles. —Phil Blair, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2025

Hiccup, who makes up for his lack of his dad’s physical build with both logistical and emotional intelligence, has never felt the same need to kill the dragons that constantly attack his homeland and steal their sheep. —Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 8 June 2025

Susan Heward-Belle, a professor at the University of Sydney, said the study shows the importance of fathers modeling respect for women, emotional intelligence, empathy and compassion to their children. —Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 5 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for emotional intelligence

• counterintelligence