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

Synonyms

• brain
• brainiac
• genius
• thinker
• whiz
• wiz
• wizard

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

Wiseman shows how daily life is shaped by the power of intellect and judgment—by debate and decree, interrogation and discussion—and reveals the extensive webs of knowledge, thought, and even passion that underlie seemingly opaque or impersonal systems. —Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 21 Nov. 2023

Last to arrive is Johnny (Brian Patrick Murphy), Josh’s comically uncouth childhood bestie, who’s far below the other guests’ (Ivy) league in intellect or income, but just might be the only sincere person at the party. —Peter Debruge, Variety, 3 Nov. 2023

On the other hand, hiring a Black coach involved a different dynamic that meant conceding the white supremacist questions about a Black man’s intellect and leadership abilities. —Samuel G. Freedman, The New Republic, 8 Sep. 2023

Whales are particularly interesting to researchers looking into nonhuman communication because whale culture and intellect are more similar to ours than to that of other animals, Gruber told Discover last year. —Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 8 Nov. 2023

Her physical poise and frequently curt tones conveying Sandra’s intellect and confidence, Salter also illuminates the professor’s bafflement at being misunderstood. —Celia Wren, Washington Post, 7 Nov. 2023

While Mame Downes is a fictitious character, the onscreen representation of a beautiful, Black woman who uses her intellect and critical thinking skills, instead of exploiting her beautiful physical appearance sends a powerful message to young women altogether. —Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 6 Nov. 2023

An apologia writ in hair about what happens when a muscular intellect is married to frail corporate governance. —Vanessa Friedman, New York Times, 27 Oct. 2023

Yes, true genius involves blazing intellect, persistence, hard work, and good timing. —WIRED, 15 Sep. 2023

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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

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

intellectual

ˌint-ᵊl-ˈek-ch(ə-w)əl, -ˈeksh-wəl 

adjective

intellectually adverb