as in intelligent
having or showing quickness of mind the quick-witted child easily figured out the trick to making the toy work

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word quick-witted distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of quick-witted are alert, clever, and intelligent. While all these words mean "mentally keen or quick," 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

When is alert a more appropriate choice than quick-witted?

Although the words alert and quick-witted have much in common, alert stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding.

alert to new technology

When is it sensible to use clever instead of quick-witted?

While the synonyms clever and quick-witted are close in meaning, clever implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities.

clever with words

Where would intelligent be a reasonable alternative to quick-witted?

The synonyms intelligent and quick-witted are sometimes interchangeable, but intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems.

an intelligent person could assemble it fast

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 quick-witted The musician, who rose to fame on the arm of quick-witted bars, released back-to-back flute albums in 2023, surprising fans and critics alike who were impressed by his skills as a flautist. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 7 May 2025 From there, a cast of charming characters come through including his honey-toting father, quick-witted uncle, and a rollicking cast that includes Deidrich Bader, David Krumholtz, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Juicy J, Phil Lamarr, Kevin Smith, Martin Starr, Tony Revolori, and more. Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 3 May 2025 This coming-of-age drama is the story of Melody Brooks, a quick-witted, non-verbal sixth grader with cerebral palsy who uses a wheelchair. Lynette Rice, Deadline, 1 May 2025 The vocalist whose acerbic, quick-witted persona on X has become one of his calling cards was at it again a few weeks ago when asked which act will open up his and brother Noel Gallagher’s shows in South America in November. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for quick-witted
Recent Examples of Synonyms for quick-witted
Adjective
  • Second, a human must be kept in the loop of intelligent machine decision-making processes.
    John Werner, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • In 1950 the Italian physicist Enrico Fermi was discussing the possibility of intelligent alien life with his colleagues.
    Philip Ball, Wired News, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • The argument that Trump has violated the 10th Amendment is a clever subversion of a line of thinking that has traditionally been backed by conservative judges, said Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law.
    Laura J. Nelson, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025
  • That dish is clever, for sure, but it’s served in an oddly gargantuan portion, and its playful clash of textures and temperatures wears out its welcome after a bite or two.
    Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • With the longer battery life, lighter design and smart safety features, this jetpack is definitely for anyone looking to make their underwater adventures more exciting.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2025
  • Moreover, waving the flag of a foreign country isn’t prideful, or politically smart in the least.
    Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025
Adjective
  • Some fans were quick to show concern for Paltrow in the comments, warning the Goop founder about the dangers of topless cooking.
    Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 15 June 2025
  • Noting some Italian heritage, her take was pretty quick.
    Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 15 June 2025
Adjective
  • On Friday, Verstappen was the fastest driver in FP1.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025
  • Taco Bell joins 2025 chicken wrap battle The addition of the Crispy Chicken Tacos and Burritos to Taco Bell's menu comes as various chains compete in what appears to be a fast food chicken wrap battle.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 14 June 2025
Adjective
  • The brilliant fruits of tessellated talents at opposite sides of the world.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • The Emerald Coast beaches have fine quartz crystal sand and brilliant green waters, which give the coastline its eponymous name.
    Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • The withdrawal, and the chaos that accompanied it, drew sharp criticism from many Americans.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025
  • And then there’s the funny, sharp and deeply ironic montages of Lucy’s clients.
    Abigail Lee, Variety, 14 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Quick-witted.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/quick-witted. Accessed 20 Jun. 2025.

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