Definition of intelligentnext
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as in smart
having or showing quickness of mind proud parents typically insist that their child is intelligent way beyond his or her years his intelligent response to the emergency averted a disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word intelligent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intelligent are alert, clever, and quick-witted. While all these words mean "mentally keen or quick," intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems.

an intelligent person could assemble it fast

When is alert a more appropriate choice than intelligent?

While in some cases nearly identical to intelligent, alert stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding.

alert to new technology

When would clever be a good substitute for intelligent?

Although the words clever and intelligent have much in common, clever implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities.

clever with words

When might quick-witted be a better fit than intelligent?

The words quick-witted and intelligent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, quick-witted implies promptness in finding answers in debate or in devising expedients in moments of danger or challenge.

no match for his quick-witted opponent

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 intelligent Border collie The undisputed top dog in the brains department, border collies consistently rank as the most intelligent breed, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) . Pat Mueller, USA Today, 18 June 2026 Now, groundbreaking science believes that these alpha sharks are highly intelligent predators that adapt their hunting techniques in real time. Denise Petski, Deadline, 18 June 2026 Our goal is not to tell you what to think, but to give you the essential knowledge and understanding to come to your own intelligent conclusions. Katie Marie Davies, Christian Science Monitor, 18 June 2026 The special uses groundbreaking science to study how adaptive and intelligent alpha great white sharks are during their hunts. Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for intelligent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intelligent
Adjective
  • Major dating apps are racing to bake in AI and selling pricey subscriptions that promise smarter matches and faster connections.
    Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026
  • August 23 – September 22 Clear aims shape smarter steps at work.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Ray advises Anna to let the police handle the situation, which confirms him as the most rational character on the show and thus the only threat that Cady seems to recognize.
    Scott Tobias, Vulture, 26 June 2026
  • Research from the LinkedIn B2B Institute, conducted with Les Binet and Peter Field, found that emotional B2B campaigns deliver roughly seven times the long-term effectiveness of rational ones.
    James Fratzke, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • To pull it off, Bugg recommends hanging the plates using discreet plate hangers.
    Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 20 June 2026
  • From discreet items like socks with a secret pocket to luggage locks, these anti-theft travel essentials will give you peace of mind on your next flight.
    Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • Instead of adding more junk to your drawers, these clever gadgets actually solve kitchen dilemmas we’re all faced with.
    Melanie Fincher, Southern Living, 26 June 2026
  • Perhaps one of these seven recently-in-theaters flicks — including a blockbuster sequel, a clever piece of folk horror, a controversial biopic, and the latest from a British film legend.
    Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • To prove religious discrimination in the workplace, a party needs to prove disparate treatment or that the employer failed to make reasonable accommodations for someone trying to practice their religious beliefs.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 27 June 2026
  • Use earphones for music and movies and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.
    Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • Berkeley adopted a more cautious approach.
    Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 June 2026
  • The data also points to a more cautious approach to automation than much of the AI industry’s messaging might suggest.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Either way, Aestura’s Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Cream Mist is an easy way to give quick hydration to dry, stressed skin, thanks to an ultrafine spray packed with ceramides.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 June 2026
  • From California politics to safety concerns on Sacramento roads, here’s a quick digest of some of the top stories for June 23, 2026.
    Ruyuan Li. Summary produced by AI assistance, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Keeping their core together seems like a prudent move.
    Tony East, Forbes.com, 24 June 2026
  • Perhaps the radical thought of a black woman as president made this approach seem prudent.
    Ta-Nehisi Coates, Vanity Fair, 15 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intelligent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intelligent. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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