street smarts

plural noun

Synonyms of street smartsnext
: the quality of being streetwise

Examples of street smarts in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Every person and system is fallible, but there’s no substitute for instinct and street smarts — can a robot achieve that kind of intelligence? Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 22 Jan. 2026 Impeccable timing – some call it Miami street smarts – has always been Rubio’s chief political skill. Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 4 Jan. 2026 However, using impressive street smarts and presence of mind, McVey left a trail of evidence behind and convinced Long to release her. Erica Marrison, PEOPLE, 3 Nov. 2025 Rhonda, a former attorney, takes a by-the-book approach to solving crimes, while teenage Baby relies on her street smarts. Kaycee Sloan, The Enquirer, 21 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for street smarts

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of street smarts was in 1966

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Street smarts.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/street%20smarts. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

street smarts

plural noun
: the quality of being streetwise

More from Merriam-Webster on street smarts

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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