Definition of adroitnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word adroit different from other adjectives like it?

The words deft and dexterous are common synonyms of adroit. While all three words mean "ready and skilled in physical movement," adroit implies dexterity but usually also stresses resourcefulness or artfulness or inventiveness.

the magician's adroit response to the failure of her prop won applause

When might deft be a better fit than adroit?

Although the words deft and adroit have much in common, deft emphasizes lightness, neatness, and sureness of touch or handling.

a surgeon's deft manipulation of the scalpel

In what contexts can dexterous take the place of adroit?

The words dexterous and adroit can be used in similar contexts, but dexterous implies expertness with consequent facility and quickness in manipulation.

unrolled the sleeping bag with a dexterous toss

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of adroit Naturally, Moore is formidable, acing an English accent and exhibiting an adroit sense of comic timing. Alison Herman, Variety, 5 Apr. 2024 The adroit reshufflings of narrative and perspective in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ and ‘Poor Things’? Michael Ordoña, Los Angeles Times, 18 Nov. 2023 The fashion house is known for its adroit use of off-kilter patterns, which, in the skilled hands of Risso, convey a cerebral, never-twee aesthetic that is no less reflected in this new line. Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 25 Aug. 2023 These mother-and-son exchanges rinse and repeat in the first stages of the storytelling, under the adroit direction of Rob Lutfy, mingling tension and absurdity. David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2023 See All Example Sentences for adroit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adroit
Adjective
  • Slafkovský had two goals and an assist in a virtuoso performance, and Iowa Wild goaltender Samuel Hlavaj was sensational, stopping 39 of 40 shots, including an 18-save first period that gave his team belief that the improbable was possible.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2026
  • McIntosh, a brilliant composer who has a sideline as a virtuoso early-music violinist, revelled in the microtonal shadings that Feldman built into his notation.
    Alex Ross, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The episode included a medical evacuation, the discovery of an immunity idol, skillful fire-making and numerous plot twists.
    Sarah Moore, Freep.com, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Mercedes assures that its Ludwigsfelde employees have undergone extensive training on the processes to ensure the most skillful RV preparation.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Unsettlingly revealing and with masterful aesthetics, Yulia Lokshina’s brilliant documentary stays etched in memory long after the end credits.
    Matthew Carey, Deadline, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Each of them is more like functional art, as much to be admired as played, the time and effort required to produce such masterful designs self-evident.
    Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The former tennis pro, who has emerged as a fan favorite for expert analysis and natural charisma, will join the network as an on-air commentator and host.
    Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Subscribe to the Life Kit newsletter for expert advice on love, money, relationships and more.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 23 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Knee-high socks in black or white complemented pointed pumps and derby shoes alike, with a playful floral pattern or delicate crochet design at the lower level.
    Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Or omit the bonus ingredients entirely and try these scones on their own in their lofty, delicate, and delicious glory.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Founded in 2023 by Alex Zhou Yong, the company has developed a broad range of dexterous hands spanning varying degrees of freedom for a wide range of clients.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026
  • While the gloves are thin and dexterous enough for reeling, setting tip-ups, and (crucially) cracking open a beer, tasks like tying knots, unhooking fish, and snapping photos will still require bare fingers.
    Harry Spampinato, Outside, 6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Jean-Claude Jitrois, who founded the brand in 1980 and remains as artistic director, announced the appointments on February 25.
    Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
  • In her new job, Vij will develop exhibitions, serve as artistic liaison for festivals and fairs, support residency and artist subsidy initiatives, and help to expand educational programming.
    News Desk, Artforum, 2 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • In less deft hands, a play like The Reservoir could devolve into a breakfast buffet of intergenerational life lessons, a Tuesdays With Morrie sequel.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2026
  • What may sound like a verbose exercise is made vibrant by King’s deft direction.
    Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adroit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adroit. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.

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