Wise

biographical name

Synonyms of Wisenext
Stephen Samuel 1874–1949 American (Hungarian-born) rabbi

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Cite this Entry

“Wise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Wise. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

wise

1 of 4 noun
: manner sense 2b
used in such phrases as in any wise, in no wise, in this wise

wise

2 of 4 adjective
wiser; wisest
1
: having or showing wisdom, good sense, or good judgment : sensible
a wise person
a wise investment
2
: having special or secret information : informed
I was wise to their plans
3
: boldly rude or disrespectful : impudent
wisely adverb

wise

3 of 4 verb
wised; wising
: to make or become informed or smart
used with up
wise up if you want to get ahead

-wise

4 of 4 adverb combining form
ˌwīz
1
a
: in the manner of
b
: in the position or direction of
slantwise
clockwise
2
: with regard to : in respect of
Etymology

Old English wīse "way, manner"

Old English wīs "showing good judgment or intelligence"

derived from Old English wīse "manner"

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