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intellect
noun
in·tel·lect
ˈin-tə-ˌlekt
1
a
: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge
b
: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought especially when highly developed
2
: a person with great intellectual powers
Examples of intellect in a Sentence
She is a woman of superior intellect.
She has a sharp intellect.
We were required to read a book every week in order to develop our intellects.
music that appeals to the intellect while still satisfying the emotions
Recent Examples on the Web
This is a great time to start new conversations or projects that challenge your intellect.
—Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Dec. 2024
Alternative experiences in education as opposed to tickbox indicators of intellect.
—Lauren Coulman, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024
To date, there's no damning evidence proving that fluoridated water leads to any of the outcomes Kennedy mentioned, including loss of intellect.
—Erika Edwards, NBC News, 7 Nov. 2024
OpenAI’s generative AI chatbot sparked a wave of interest in the technology, as the broader public began to realize for the first time that machines might surpass mankind in intellect this generation.
—Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin intellectus, from intellegere to understand — more at intelligent
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Time Traveler
The first known use of intellect was
in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near intellect
Cite this Entry
“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 5 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
intellect
noun
in·tel·lect
ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt
1
a
: the power of knowing
b
: the capacity for thought especially when highly developed
2
: a person of notable intellect
Medical Definition
intellect
noun
in·tel·lect
ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt
1
: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge
2
: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought
intellectually
adverb
More from Merriam-Webster on intellect
Nglish: Translation of intellect for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of intellect for Arabic Speakers
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